Gdansk, the capital of amber

Baltic amber, also known as succinite, is one of the most valuable natural treasures of the Baltic Sea region, formed over millions of years and has played an important role in culture, art, and even medicine ever since.

Baltic amber originated about 40–50 million years ago when ancient coniferous trees, mainly pines and spruces of the Pinaceae family, secreted resin in response to injury. This resin dripped onto the ground or ran down the tree bark, trapping a variety of organisms, such as insects, spiders, and even small vertebrates. Over time, the resin hardened and fossilized, creating amber, which often contains well-preserved plant and animal inclusions.

Amber is an easily worked material: it can be cut, polished, carved and engraved. It softens when heated, but becomes brittle when heated suddenly. During processing, natural or synthetic dyes are often used to modify the color. Modern techniques, such as autoclaving, allow amber to be increased in transparency, hardened or to have a uniform color.

Gdansk, the “Amber Capital of the World”, has a rich historical and cultural heritage in the field of amber art. The Amber Museum in Gdansk, located in the Great Mill, provides a comprehensive overview of the history, origin and processing of amber. The museum displays pieces of amber with various inclusions, as well as historical and modern amber objects, such as jewelry, sculptures and household items. The exhibition also presents the medicinal uses of amber, which were used to treat various diseases in ancient times.

The Amber Road was an ancient trade route that transported amber from the Baltic Sea to southern Europe and as far as the Mediterranean. The city of Gdansk played a key role in this trade and became a center of amber craftsmanship in the 17th and 18th centuries. Amber objects made in the city's workshops reached European monarchs and nobles and were often used as diplomatic gifts.

Baltic amber is therefore not only It is not only a natural wonder, but also a cultural and historical treasure that has fascinated people for centuries with its beauty and versatility. The Amber Museum in Gdańsk is an excellent place to learn about this fascinating material. After all, it is beyond dispute that Gdańsk is truly the capital of amber.

Ornament made of amber

Amber sculpture

Amber

Table made of amber

Amber jewelry

Fruit bowl made of amber