The Trempelmarkt in Nuremberg is not only the largest flea market in Germany, but one of the most fascinating. Almost 4,000 booths from both private individuals and professional traders offer goods for sale. This market, which takes place on the second weekend in May and September stretches through the entire Old Town of Nuremberg: In the east, it ends at the Spitalgasse, in the south at the Church of St. Lorenz, in the west at Hefnersplatz and in the north at the Old City Hall. The atmosphere on Friday night is particularly special, as visitors can wander through the market – with the booths often decorated with candlelight – until midnight.
A fascinating mix – Collectables at the Nuremberg Trempelmarkt
At the Nuremberg Trempelmarkt you can discover treasures from the past. Not only wonderful antiques, but also historical tools, old porcelain, jewelry, clothing – everything your heart desires and was useful in the past. As you wander through the market, you’ll find something original or long sought after. It is also a paradise for book collectors. Here, you’ll find a wide range of titles: from valuable treasures to that paperback you’ve been looking for. Some sellers have humorous ideas and offer goods such as "guaranteed fake moon rocks" or "virility enhancer from the Pegnitz River".
From little beginnings to a grand event
The name "Trempelmarkt" comes from the past. More than 400 years ago, second-hand merchandise was offered for sale in the courtyard of the city hall. Trempelmarkt comes from the Franconian word "trempala", which means a small space – referring to the tiny booths where the goods were offered. Today, the event is officially called Trödelmarkt. The idea for the modern market came in the 1970s. The original plan was to have the event three times a year on a Saturday. But when the organizers realized how many interested purchasers flocked to town, they decided to expand it to two days and spread it through the entire Old Town. A portion of the proceeds is donated to charity.
