Town Hall in Chojnice

Located in the northern side of the market square, this building is one of the city's most important monuments and the third structure to serve as the seat of the municipal authorities. The current neo-Gothic edifice was erected at the beginning of the 20th century, between 1901 and 1904, based on designs by Berlin architects. The new town hall was built due to the rapid growth of the city and the poor condition of the previous buildings. The first town hall, dating back to the 14th century, located in the center of the market square, was transformed into a Protestant church. In its place, a Baroque town hall was built, which survived until the early 20th century. The new town hall was set on high basements, and its red neo-Gothic facade was adorned with modernist decorations. The building towers over the market square thanks to its tall, stepped gable with pinnacles that further emphasize its monumental appearance. In the central part of the facade, there is a balcony with an ornate balustrade supported by sculpted heads, and a bay window on the second floor is also supported by similar sculptures. Between the floors and above the windows are bas-reliefs depicting emblems related to craftsmanship and trade, while the front wall is adorned with the coats of arms of Chojnice, Poland, Pomerania, and the towns of Człuchów, Czarne, Debrzno, and Biały Bór. Symbolic motifs of owls and bees refer to wisdom and diligence, key values in the city's development. Inside the town hall, the Council Chamber is particularly noteworthy, with its preserved modernist details. The windows feature stained glass from 1903, created by Ryszard Schlein, illustrating the virtues and duties of municipal authorities toward citizens, such as justice, wisdom, and mercy. The original chandeliers and wood paneling date back to the time of the town hall's construction.