The insignia of the University of Gdańsk - a chain, ring and sceptre - were given to the first rector, prof. Janusz Sokołowski, as a gift by Gdańsk craftsmen. And they have remained unchanged ever since. Particularly impressive are the large blocks of amber decorating the chain and crowning the sceptre. This is a natural reference to the maritime character of our university.

Insignia - from Latin " insignium" is a sign of power - secular or spiritual. Insignia are an inseparable part of academic ceremonial and signify authority - of the rector, vice-rectors and deans.

We encourage you to read press clippings informing about passing this unusual gift to the University of Gdańsk.

Rector's insignia - a lasting contribution of craftsmen to the history of the University of Gdańsk

The craftsmanship of Gdańsk in its more than a thousand-year history has always been closely connected with its city. The decision to establish the University of Gdańsk was welcomed by the craftsmen with the declaration that they would fund insignia for the rectors and deans and uniforms for the senate. On the eve of the inauguration of the first academic year at the University of Gdańsk, the final moment will take place - the handing over of the foundation to the university authorities.

The insignia were made from 12 kg of silver and 2 kg of gold. They consist of a chain, a ring and a sceptre for the rector, two chains for vice-rectors and four chains for deans. The silver insignia are richly gilded and decorated with large cut amber. The design of each chain contains the symbolism of the respective UG faculty.

In addition to the insignia, the craftsmanship foundation also includes 45 togae including birettas and two sceptres. The rector's toga is amaranth in colour with an ermine collar. The costumes were sewn by Gdańsk craftsmen, while the insignia were made to order by a specialist jewellery and goldsmiths cooperative "ORNO" in Warsaw. The value of the foundation exceeds half a million zlotys.

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