Trödelmarktinsel, River islet in Nuremberg's old town, Germany.
Trödelmarktinsel is a small island in the Pegnitz River lined with restored timber-framed houses that now contain antique and handcraft shops. The buildings stand closely together forming narrow lanes, with water flowing around the island creating an enclosed world unto itself.
The island began in medieval times as a market for livestock trading in the old town. In the 15th century it shifted toward second-hand goods trading and has retained this function as a flea market ever since.
The name comes from the flea market that has defined this quarter for centuries, and visitors can see how traditional craftsmanship remains alive in the shops today. Modern artisans have also settled here, blending their work with the island's heritage.
The island connects to the mainland through several bridges and is easy to explore on foot. Most shops open on weekends, making Saturday and Sunday the best time to visit.
Few visitors realize the island was once devoted entirely to pigs before transforming completely into an arts and crafts hub. This radical shift is rarely seen so clearly in other European cities.
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