A Winter's Tale: Gdańsk on February 25, 2025
As the first light of dawn crept over the Baltic Sea, Gdańsk stirred from its slumber. The city, with its rich tapestry of history and culture, stood poised to embrace the day. The air was crisp, carrying the unmistakable scent of the sea, mingled with the earthy aroma of the cobblestone streets. Morning: A Gentle Awakening At 7:00 AM, the city was cloaked in a soft mist, the kind that blurs the edges of reality and lends an air of mystery to the surroundings. The temperature was a cool 37°F (3°C), a typical February morning in this northern port city. The iconic Crane Gate, or Żuraw, stood silently over the Motława River, its wooden structure reflecting in the still waters below. Once a bustling center of trade, it now served as a museum, a testament to Gdańsk's maritime heritage. Cafés along Długi Targ, the Long Market, began to open their doors. The rich aroma of freshly ground coffee beans wafted into the streets, inviting passersby to seek warmth and comfort. Locals, wrapped ...