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Schuhhof: A Cobblestone Lane of History

Step back in time in Quedlinburg's Schuhhof, a narrow lane echoing with the footsteps of medieval shoemakers.

The Schuhhof, or 'Shoe Court,' is a narrow, picturesque alleyway in Quedlinburg, Germany, once home to the town's shoemakers. Its history dates back to the 13th century, with its charming half-timbered houses and unique shuttered windows offering a glimpse into medieval life.

A brief summary to Schuhhof

  • Quedlinburg, 06484, DE

Local tips

  • Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the lane's intimate atmosphere.
  • Look for the oldest house in the lane, Schuhhof 1, to see an example of early Fachwerk architecture.
  • Take a moment to imagine the shoemakers at work, their tools clanging and the sounds of bartering filling the narrow space.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Schuhhof is located just east of Quedlinburg's central market square. From the Rathaus (Town Hall) on the market square, walk east towards the Schuhmachergildehaus (Shoemakers' Guildhall). A narrow passage through this building leads directly into the Schuhhof.

  • Public Transport

    From Quedlinburg train station, take a local bus (QBus) towards the city center. Several bus lines stop near the Markt (market square). From there, it's a short walk east to the Schuhmachergildehaus and the entrance to the Schuhhof. A single bus fare is approximately €2.

  • Parking

    Parking is available around the city ring. Follow signs to 'Altstadt' (Old Town) and park in one of the designated parking areas. From there, it's a short walk to the Markt and then east to the Schuhhof. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €1-2 per hour.

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Discover more about Schuhhof

The Schuhhof is a hidden gem in Quedlinburg, a narrow lane steeped in history and charm. Tucked away just east of the Quedlinburg market square, a passageway through the old Shoemakers' Guildhall (built in 1553) leads into this special corner of the Old Town. In the Middle Ages, the Schuhhof was the heart of Quedlinburg's shoemaking trade. Cobblers lived and worked in the small, two-story half-timbered houses that line the lane. The most distinctive feature of these buildings is their shuttered windows, which served as makeshift storefronts. When the shutters were open, customers knew the shoemaker was open for business; when closed, it was closing time. In fact, it is believed that the term “closing time” originated here. The oldest building in the Schuhhof is Schuhhof 1, dating back to around 1550. The lane itself is even older, with records showing that residents paid dues to St. Nikolai Church as far back as the 13th century. In the mid-17th century, the lane housed 14 small houses rented to craftsmen. In 1808, Quedlinburg had 150 shoemakers. Today, the Schuhhof is a reminder of Quedlinburg's rich artisan past. Visitors can stroll through the lane, admire the architecture, and imagine life in this medieval shoemaking center.

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