The Montownia assembly facility is an example of the rare industrial architecture from the Second World War in Gdańsk. The history of the area on which it is located dates all the way back to the late 14th century, when the Młode Miasto (‘Young Town’) came into being. Over the years, the whole area underwent a significant transformation, boosted in particular by the growing shipbuilding industry in Gdańsk. Montownia was also a witness to many historic events, including the beginning of the “Solidarność” movement in August of 1980.
This colloquial name for Montownia stems from the building’s original function, when structural components and materials for the production of German submarines were stored during the Second World War. It was also where some construction and testing took place. Due to its crucial military role and considering the war-time threats, numerous reinforcements were used in the design of Montownia. After the conquest of Gdańsk by the Red Army in 1945, most of the equipment, materials and unfinished U-boats were exported to the Soviet Union.
In the 1990s, the Montownia assembly facility was home to the Kazamaty club. The year 2003 saw Centrum Stocznia Gdańsk begin a new chapter in the history of this place. It became a place where for 17 years different events and banquets were hosted. It was here that J.M. Jarre’s historic ‘Space of Freedom’ concert took place in 2005 – watched live by more than 170,000 people.
More information on the military history of the shipyard can be found in the Historical Point library on the third floor of Montownia. Please join us!
We also recommend these online publications:
