November - 2014
Nuremberg Christmas Market - Germany
Christkindlesmarkt is a Christmas Market that is held annually in Nuremberg, in the state of Bavaria. It takes place during Advent in the Hauptmarkt, the central square in Nuremberg’s old town, and in adjoining squares and streets. With about two million visitors a year the Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt is one of the largest Christmas markets in Germany and one of the most famous in the world.
Every year the Christkindlesmarket is opened with a prologue speech by the Christkind from the balcony of the Frauenkirche church. The Nuremberg Christkind, or Christ Child, is the figure of a young woman dressed in white and gold, with curly blond hair, a tall golden crown and angel-wing-like long golden sleeves. Since 1969 the Christkind has been elected every second year among local girls between 16 and 19 years of age, to do the opening speech.
The Christkindlesmarket becomes more glamorous and beautiful at night, when the lights are on.
Following are details of several items found in the Christkindlesmarket, including the Lebkuchen hearts, a German cake.
