The Markt is the formal centre of Lübeck — a cobbled rectangular square framed by the brick screen of the Rathaus on two sides, the gables of patrician houses opposite, and the towers of the Marienkirche behind. A weekly farmers' market still operates on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays; the Christmas market in December covers the whole square with wooden chalets selling glühwein, sausages, and northern-German handicrafts.
The Renaissance fountain in the centre dates from the eighteenth century. The cafe terraces in summer are well placed for watching the small ceremonies of a working city centre.