Westerplatte Guide
Westerplatte: Where World War II Began Guide
Stand on the hallowed ground of Westerplatte, a peninsula in Gdansk that marks the symbolic beginning of World War II. This small strip of land witnessed the first armed conflict of the war on September 1, 1939, when German forces attacked the Polish Military Transit Depot. It's a place of immense historical significance, a somber reminder of the devastating consequences of war, and a testament to the bravery of the Polish soldiers who defended it. The Polish Military Transit Depot at Westerplatte was established in the 1920s to provide logistical support for the Polish garrison in Gdansk. In the days leading up to the war, the depot was reinforced with a small contingent of soldiers, armed with limited weaponry. On September 1, 1939, the German battleship Schleswig-Holstein opened fire on Westerplatte, initiating the invasion of Poland. Despite being heavily outnumbered and outgunned, the Polish soldiers held out for seven days, becoming a symbol of Polish resistance against Nazi aggression. Today, Westerplatte is a memorial site where visitors can explore the remnants of the Polish fortifications, including the guardhouses and bunkers. A towering monument stands as a tribute to the defenders of Westerplatte. You can walk along the coastline, imagining the intense fighting that took place here. The site also features a small museum that provides historical context and displays artifacts from the battle. While there aren't specific culinary traditions directly linked to Westerplatte, consider trying some traditional Polish cuisine in Gdansk to connect with the local culture and history.
Transportation
Getting to Westerplatte is relatively straightforward: * **Bus:** Take bus line 106 from Gdansk city center to the "Westerplatte" stop. * **Ferry:** During the tourist season, ferries operate from Gdansk's Old Town to Westerplatte. This is a scenic and convenient way to reach the peninsula.