Gdynia celebrates 99 Years! History, pride, and the future of the Baltic City

Aleksandra Kosiorek prezydent Gdyni fot. gdyniasport.pl

The celebrations began the weekend before the anniversary. On February 9, a solemn Holy Mass was held at the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy in the parish of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Poland, in honor of the city. The following day, the main part of the celebrations took place at the Monument to the Polish Navy, attended by parliamentarians, local government officials, representatives of the Polish Navy and uniformed services, as well as residents and students from Gdynia’s schools.

The Mayor of Gdynia, Aleksandra Kosiorek, emphasized the historical significance of the city in her speech and paid tribute to its builders and inhabitants.

"Exactly 99 years ago, Gdynia was granted municipal rights. However, this was only one of many steps in a long journey that began much earlier when decisions were made to utilize the opportunities brought by regaining access to the sea. Gdynia became a city thanks to the bold choices of the authorities and the people who came here to settle and build a new reality. This place attracted those who sought opportunities and challenges and had the courage to take them on," said Mayor Kosiorek.

"Today, we remember both those who created these opportunities and those who seized them. We pay tribute to the creators of the port, the city, and the fleet, with gratitude for their unwavering contribution. Our task is to preserve their memory and continue to develop their legacy—this is the responsibility of local authorities. Gdynia is the choice of many generations: those who built it and those who came to develop it further. It is a shared story that fills us with pride. This city is important both to those who have lived and shared it and to those who have chosen it for a fresh start. It is a place that engages and is close to our hearts. Not only the authorities but also the residents care for it," she added.

"I want to express my gratitude to everyone who makes it possible for us to live in this city, enjoying its history, identity, and aspirations. With gratitude and hope, I look to the future, speaking today on behalf of all residents: Happy Birthday, Gdynia!" the mayor declared.

The Deputy Voivode of Pomerania, Emil Rojek, reminded everyone of the vital role played by the city's residents in Gdynia's development. He highlighted their determination, talent, and cooperation, which helped create one of the most modern ports on the Baltic Sea.

The celebrations also had an international dimension. Among the guests was the Honorary Consul of France, Alain Mompert, who, together with the Honorary Consul of Moldova, Jacek Tymiński, laid a wreath at the Monument to the Polish Navy.

The celebrations concluded with a parade featuring the honor company from the Gdynia Naval Port Command and the Orchestra of the Maritime Border Guard Unit. It was a grand finale that underscored Gdynia’s importance on the map of Poland and Europe.

The citywide events culminated in a formal session of the Gdynia City Council, during which individuals and institutions that drive Gdynia’s development—socially, academically, and infrastructurally—were honored.

This year’s recipients of the Eugeniusz Kwiatkowski Medals included:

• Professor Maria Jolanta Sołtysik – an architect, architectural historian, full professor at Gdańsk University of Technology, and a third-generation Gdynian;
• Leszek Kajetan Kilanowski – a sailor, athlete, teacher, and promoter of sailing;
• Janusz Jarosiński – a long-time president of the Port of Gdynia and an effective manager.

Additionally, Professor Norman Davies was named an Honorary Citizen of Gdynia.

To mark the city's 99th birthday, residents and friends of Gdynia celebrated, cherishing its rich history and looking forward to the future with hope.

Happy Birthday, Gdynia!