They first lit up in the 1870s. The gas lamps in Krakow’s Cloth Hall have been repaired and once again illuminate the famous building. The restoration work took several years.
Gas lamps once again illuminated the Cloth Hall after a three-year hiatus. They are an architectural detail and a curiosity, as they are a traditional light source based on ancient technology.
A total of 36 historic gas lamps illuminate the Cloth Hall. A few days ago, they were put back in their original place. Interestingly, the lamps operate in a continuous mode, i.e. they also shine during the day. This is due to the specific design of the lamps and the way they are powered. The continuous operation is expected to change in the future.
A solution is being tested to allow the lamps to be switched on and off automatically and unattended at appropriate times. This solution will have to be approved by the conservation officer.
The Municipal Buildings Authority was responsible for the conservation refurbishment of the lamps. The work started at the end of August 2024. The lamps were cleaned, repainted and worn parts replaced with new ones. The gas installation was also replaced during the work. The work was subsidised by the Social Committee for Renovation of Krakow’s Monuments and took place under the supervision of the Provincial Office for the Protection of Monuments.
Gas lamps appeared in the Cloth Hall during a major reconstruction lasting from 1875 to 1879. The solution was designed by Tomasz Prylinski. He proposed hanging decorative lamps whose design would relate to the history of the city.
source: Municipal Buildings Management in Krakow
Read also: Krakow | History | Curiosities | Monument | whiteMAD on Instagram
