Poznań, a city rich in history and culture, houses a unique architectural treasure located at the heart of its Old Market Square (Stary Rynek).
Known as ‘Domki Budnicze’, these narrow three- or four-story merchant houses date back to the first half of the 16th century. Positioned just south of the town hall, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past, embodying a period of thriving trade and community life.
A Testament to Poznań’s Trade Heritage
Unlike the patrician houses that line the market square’s facades, the ‘Domki Budnicze’ were the domain of slightly less affluent merchants. In their early Renaissance arcades, once bustling market activities took place, with goods such as fish, candles, torches, and salt being traded. This commercial past has earned them the historical name “herring booths” due to their association with the sale of fish.
Architectural Evolution Through the Ages
Originally granted by the city authorities in 1418, the 17 herring booths underwent significant transformations over the centuries. The beginning of the 16th century saw some of these structures receive brick arcades. By 1534, the masons’ guild was permitted to construct arcades for all the buildings, a move that further defined the area’s architectural landscape.
As time passed, these arcades were walled up to create small shops, and the buildings were almost completely destroyed during World War II. Post-war reconstruction efforts saw the revival of these arcades, incorporating original Renaissance details. At the same time, the narrow, single- and double-windowed facades were adorned with polychrome designs by Zbigniew Bednarowicz between 1953 and 1961. Today, these arcades continue to serve as trading spots, albeit now predominantly for souvenir products.
A Living Legacy
Located at the Old Market Square, itself is a square of just over 140 meters on each side, surrounded by houses and featuring key historical city structures: the town hall in the northeast corner, the city scales to the northwest, and the trading facilities to the south. ‘Domki Budnicze’, nestled in this vibrant area, continues to enchant residents and visitors alike, offering a tangible connection to Poznań’s rich merchant past and serving as a reminder of the city’s enduring spirit and solidity.
