Rybi Rynek in Bydgoszcz has undergone a real image metamorphosis. As part of extensive works, the former car park was transformed into an elegant town square. A modern design combined with respect for the historic character of the place restored this part of the city to its former glory. The centrepiece of the square became a striking wind rose made of stone paving, surrounded by stylish small architecture and new planting.
“The revitalisation of the Fish Market is another element of our ambitious idea for an elegant, vibrant City Hall,” emphasises Bydgoszcz Mayor Rafał Bruski. “We have already opened the Chamber Theatre around it, which has become one of the most visited cultural institutions. We have restored the façade of the Granaries, a symbol of Bydgoszcz, and restricted the passage of cars through revitalised streets and bridges. These projects have helped us become the most visited city by tourists in the region. Maintaining this result requires work. We are acting further. We are building the Fourth Circle of the Opera House, we will revitalise further sections of the boulevards and St Barbara’s Island. We also have a number of works ahead of us on Mill Island.”
One of the main objectives of the project was to introduce more greenery into the urban space. Trees – a plane tree and a lime tree – were planted in the square, surrounded by naturalistic-style flowerbeds that included hydrangeas, ornamental grasses, roses and perennials. Additional trees were planted along the road leading to the quay. Most of the planting received illumination, enhancing the aesthetics of the site after dark. The square was equipped with stylish lanterns, benches and chairs designed by design students from the Bydgoszcz University of Technology. Elegant small architecture emphasises the representative character of Rybie Rynek, creating a space conducive to rest and integration of residents.
The renovation of Rybie Rynek was part of a wider project involving the revitalisation of Bydgoszcz’s Old Town. Once the main scope of work has been completed, the city is planning to rebuild Karmelicka Street (providing access to the Opera House’s Fourth Circle), renovate Podwale Street and the waterfront at Rygi Rynek. An important element of the project is the restoration of a replica of the historic harbour crane, referring to the former function of the site. Design documentation is currently being developed in cooperation with the Bydgoszcz University of Technology.
Rybi Rynek before and after the metamorphosis. Photo: Google Earth and bydgoszcz.pl
The renovation of Rybie Rynek is part of a long-term effort to restore Bydgoszcz’s downtown to its historical splendour. Investments completed in previous years, such as the restyling of streets adjacent to the Old Market and the comprehensive revitalisation of Kościeleckich Square, harmonise with the modern appearance of the Fish Market. The total cost of the recent investments amounted to around PLN 30.3 million, and their effects are already attracting the attention of residents and tourists.
The history of the Fish Market dates back to the Middle Ages, when the place was known as ‘Rybaki’. From the 16th century until 1946, the square served as a traditional fish market. Galleys, boats and later barges and steamers arriving at the quay delivered fish to be sold at the stalls.

In the 19th century, the Fish Market, known as Pack Hoff and Fischmarkt, was a central port point. Neighbouring granaries stored fish and herring imported from Gdansk, and net floats with live fish and crayfish floated on the waters of the Brda. Although in 1906 the sale of fish was moved to the newly established market hall, the market still offered salted herring in barrels and local pottery.
Source: bydgoszcz .pl, visitbydgoszcz.pl
Read also: Architecture in Poland | Metamorphosis | Squares, Squares, Parks | Ecology | Monument | Bydgoszcz