Step into the Craftsmen's Courtyard and you'll soon catch a whiff of the delicious scent of Nuremberg bratwurst, gingerbread and other specialties of Franconian cuisine. The medieval feel of the narrow lanes, shops and half-timbered huts makes this little village within the big city a special attraction.

If you look towards the Old Town of Nuremberg from the main train station, the first thing you see is the Frauentor Tower. The tower was made round in the middle of the 16th century and is one of four large round towers in the city wall of Nuremberg. Today, on the historical cobblestones of the former ward, you'll find the colorful and lively Craftsmen's Courtyard.

Experience Traditional Handicrafts

You can watch the craftsmen work and buy a wonderful and unique example of traditional artisan work. A gingerbread maker, leather craftsman, glass painter and cutter, potter, tin smith, an artist of poker work and a goldsmith all bring their art and artistry to life in the Craftsmen's Courtyard.

Precious Handmade Memories of Nuremberg

Many of the things that have made Nuremberg world famous can be seen and purchased in the idyllic Craftsmen's Courtyard. If you are looking for something special - whether it be handmade dolls, tin toys, wooden toys, beautiful jewelry or arts and crafts - you're sure to find what you're looking for. Fans of Franconian cuisine can enjoy Franconian wine, bratwurst on pewter plates, fresh beer, specialty chocolates and genuine Nuremberg gingerbread.

Key facts:

  • former defensive courtyard embedded in the last Nuremberg city wall
  • Craftmen's Courtyard was created here in 1971 to celebrate 500th anniversary of Albrecht Dürer's birthday intended as an "additional attraction" just for that year; it remains popular until today
  • in the little "Craftmen's Village", hand-made products are on offer and one can observe goldsmiths, doll makers and potters at work