St. Katharinenkirchhof

The historical German street name St. Katharinenkirchhof in Danzig (now Gdańsk) corresponds to the modern Polish street ulica Świętej Katarzyny. This street is named after St. Catherine’s Church (Kościół św. Katarzyny), one of the oldest churches in Gdańsk, dating back to the 13th century. The church has significant historical importance and has influenced the naming of the surrounding area.

The street was established in 1653, when a section of the cemetery was ceded to the Brigitten Convent to create a clear access route to Kagelzippel. Until then, the area was referred to as ‘Friedhof’ (cemetery), for example in 1624. Nevertheless, even in 1796 and 1806, it was still counted among the Kirchensteige (church paths). It has existed in its current extent since 1814. The current name translates to ‘little Catherine.’

Over the centuries, the street’s name has evolved, reflecting the city’s complex history and changes in governance. Following World War II and the subsequent shift of Gdańsk from German to Polish administration, many street names were Polonized to reflect Polish language and heritage. Thus, St. Katharinenkirchsteig became ulica Świętej Katarzyny.

This street, located in the Old Town of Gdańsk, is notable for its proximity to St. Catherine’s Church and its historical significance within the city’s urban development.