Shambles Street in York

Shambles is often referred to as one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval streets, although the name is also used in reference not only to the street itself but also to the adjacent narrow alleyways. Shambles Street itself is mentioned in the Book of Doomsday, so it can be assumed that it has existed for more than 900 years. Shambles is a time machine that takes you back to the Middle Ages.

The name of the street comes from the Saxon "Fleshammels", which means "Street of the executioners", since at one time there was a meat market, which is still spoken of by the wide window sills of houses that served as counters for merchants. Over time, the butcher shops were replaced by shops serving numerous tourists, but the architecture of the place still tells about its original purpose. Sometimes the street is so narrow that you can reach the counters on both sides. This is because meat must be protected from sunlight to stay fresh throughout the day.

One building on Shambles Street should be noted. This is Margaret Cliserow's house. She was arrested in 1586 on charges of harboring Catholic priests. The authorities sentenced her to death, and it was not until 1970 that she was acquitted and elevated to the rank of saints, and her house became a museum accessible to the public.