THE HANGING SIGNS OF MEDIEVAL EUROPE

PARIS FRANCE

The old Medieval towns of Europe come with intriguing stone walls, moats, cobblestone streets, clock towers, gates, churches, and castles. They are also adorned with hanging signs that stick out perpendicular above the business doors that can easily be seen from afar. The signs vary in shape and color, however, they always come with a symbol or picture depicting the product or craft made in the shop. Best of all they can be found throughout the countries of Europe.

The Middle Ages lasted in Europe from around 600 to 1500 AD. It was during these times that individuals joined together to form guilds or working groups that represented all of the trades and crafts performed within a town. There were tanners, bakers, shoemakers, apothecaries, candle makers, and more, each displaying its unique signage to attract customers.

Up until the 1500s few people could read or write, consequently, there was little writing on the signs. A butcher shop might use a picture of a cow or pig, a pharmacist often displayed a mortar and pestle, and a blacksmith might use a crossed hammer and sickle to portray his business. Quite often, the signs were silhouettes made of black wrought iron—these are particularly impressive on a blue sky day with mountains in the backdrop.

Through the years most of the Medieval towns have been destroyed due to war, disasters, and neglect, however, there are still, many that have stood the test of time. Here is a list, prepared by WorldAtlas.com, of 15 amazingly well-preserved Medieval towns in Europe:

Nordlingen, Germany                                   Toledo, Spain

Carcassonne, France                                     Bruges, Belgium

Torun, Poland                                                Siena, Italy

Dubrovnik, Croatia                                       Ptuj, Slovenia

Ohrid, Macedonia                                         Chester, England

Prague, Czechia                                            Bergen, Norway

Obidos, Portugal                                           Delft, Netherlands

Tallinn, Estonia

FRANCE