Explore a world from another time in the Handwerkerhof (Craftsmen’s Courtyard), a miniature town in the heart of Nuremberg’s medieval center. Sample traditional Franconian cuisine as you stroll through the atmospheric village and watch craftspeople plying their conventional trades in cozy workshops. Glasscutters, doll makers, leatherworkers and silversmiths are among the craftspeople you may see at work in the Handwerkerhof.
Pass through the immense medieval city walls and let yourself be whirled back in time. As you walk along the narrow and winding cobblestone streets, you’ll find a collection of small shops and artisan studios. Watch a goldsmith bending and filing fine jewelry and see glass being blown into amazing shapes. You may see a pewterer creating utensils and stained-glass painters meticulously coloring their glass pieces. See a dollmaker constructing traditional toys and watch as bakers turn gingerbread into snow-dusted cottages. Many of the items in the shops and studios are available for sale. Pick up beautifully crafted leather goods, glass sculptures, ceramics, candles or silver ornaments.
Take a seat in one of the rustic restaurants that are true to the traditions of Franconia, the ancient region of northern Bavaria that is distinct for its language and culture. Have a slice of onion cake and bratwurst for a filling afternoon treat. Try a glass of Franconian wine or sample a frothy stein of Nuremberg beer. Franconian-style menu items include roast sausages, carp or pork shoulder, which are traditionally enjoyed with sides of sauerkraut and potato. Do some people-watching of other visitors strolling around the pretty half-timbered houses and checking out the views of Nuremberg’s Frauentorturm (Lady’s Gate Tower).
The Handwerkerhof is located at Königstor, opposite Nuremberg’s main railway station. Enter the medieval village for free. It is closed on Sundays and public holidays, as well as the winter period between December 30 and early March. Visit the village almost any time of the day as the Craftsmen’s Courtyard restaurants and taverns are generally open until late evening.
