Visbanken, Historic fish market and Rijksmonument in Alkmaar, Netherlands.
Visbanken is a historic fish market in Alkmaar featuring traditional wooden stalls arranged along the Verdronkenoord canal. The structure accommodates numerous fish vendors who display fresh seafood and fish products throughout the week.
Since the 16th century, this location has served as a central trading hub for fish merchants and local fishermen throughout North Holland. The structure evolved over the centuries into an established market that shaped the regional economy.
The market remains a living center where fishmongers and vendors sell traditional Dutch herring and regional seafood varieties each day. These practices shape how locals and visitors experience the area around the Verdronkenoord canal.
The market operates Tuesday through Saturday with the largest selection of fresh catches available in the morning hours. The stalls line the canal directly, making the site easy to reach on foot and well integrated into the town center.
The building received Rijksmonument status in 1969 with protection number 7324, highlighting its importance as a national cultural asset. This official recognition honors both the physical structure and the site's role in Dutch commercial history.
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