ORP Blyskawica (Lightning Ship), Gdynia (must see)
The ORP Blyskawica, meaning Lightning, is one of Poland鈥檚 most historically significant naval vessels and now serves as a museum ship in Gdynia. This Grom-class destroyer, built between 1935 and 1937 by J. Samuel White in Cowes, England, was among the fastest and most heavily armed destroyers of World War II. During the war, Lightning played a crucial role in escorting convoys, engaging enemy forces, and supporting Allied operations, earning its place as a symbol of Polish naval resilience. She is the only Polish Navy ship ever awarded the Virtuti Militari, Poland鈥檚 highest military decoration for valor.
Now permanently moored next to the Gift of Pomerania, Lightning is the oldest preserved destroyer in the world, making it a must-visit attraction for military history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the ship's decks, original armaments, and crew quarters, gaining insight into life aboard a wartime destroyer.
The museum also presents exhibits on Poland鈥檚 naval history, detailing Lightning鈥檚 role in World War II and her contributions to the Polish Navy鈥檚 legacy. In recognition of its historical importance, the ship was honored with the Pro Memoria Medal in 2012.
Now permanently moored next to the Gift of Pomerania, Lightning is the oldest preserved destroyer in the world, making it a must-visit attraction for military history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the ship's decks, original armaments, and crew quarters, gaining insight into life aboard a wartime destroyer.
The museum also presents exhibits on Poland鈥檚 naval history, detailing Lightning鈥檚 role in World War II and her contributions to the Polish Navy鈥檚 legacy. In recognition of its historical importance, the ship was honored with the Pro Memoria Medal in 2012.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Gdynia. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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ORP Blyskawica (Lightning Ship) on Map
Sight Name: ORP Blyskawica (Lightning Ship)
Sight Location: Gdynia, Poland (See walking tours in Gdynia)
Sight Type: Museum/Gallery
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Gdynia, Poland (See walking tours in Gdynia)
Sight Type: Museum/Gallery
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Gdynia, Poland
Create Your Own Walk in Gdynia
Creating your own self-guided walk in Gdynia is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Gdynia Introduction Walking Tour
Set along Poland鈥檚 breezy Baltic coast, Gdynia might seem like a youngster compared to its neighbors鈥攂ut what it lacks in ancient heritage, it makes up for in style, maritime flair, and modern energy. Born as a humble fishing village, Gdynia took off spectacularly in the 1920s, transforming into Poland鈥檚 prized gateway to the sea after the country regained independence. This vibrant city... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles