Goldschmiedegasse (Goldsmiths' Lane) was first mentioned in 1357 as "twergasse" (cross lane), with the slightly later addition "clensmedegasse" (small smiths' lane). As late as 1470 it was still called "kleynsmedegasse," and only from 1523 did it bear the name "Goldsmedegasse."

The older designation Kleinschmiedegasse (Small Smiths' Lane) is not entirely synonymous with the modern name. Kleinschmiede were craftsmen who produced finer metalwork in general, as opposed to blacksmiths (Grobschmiede). Besides the goldsmiths, the locksmiths also belonged to this broader group.

The Danzig goldsmiths' guild received its charter as early as 1418, yet its members were evidently not numerous enough in the lane to lend it their name until after 1470. The street name thus evolved from the more general term for fine metalworkers to the specialized goldsmiths who came to dominate the area.

History