For centuries, Bruges fish market used to be held in the town's centre (in a corner of the 'Markt' square)... but, because of the not-so-pleasant smells, it was decided in 1821 to move it to its current location. From Tuesday to Saturday, you can still visit the fish market in the morning, where freshly caught sea fish is still sold. For a long time, sea fish was however a kind of luxury, to be afforded only by the wealthiest, while poorer people had to be satisfied with freshwater fish, which was more affordable. Freshwater fish used to be sold at the 'Huidenvettersplein'.
The 'Huidenvettersplein' (or Tanners Square) is the smaller square on the same bank of the canal, but at the other side of the bridge. It got its name from the fact that animal skins meant for tanning were also sold there... another rather smelly business indeed!
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