Who is Runduchnyk?

The word "runduchnik" comes from the word "runduchok". A – roundabout is a small bench, a stall or even a wooden rack with a counter that was located just outside. In ancient times, when modern supermarkets and indoor markets did not yet exist, the chisel was the main way of trade.

The word "jacket" itself has its roots in the German language, from the word Rund <TAG1> "round" or "covered". This may be due to the appearance of these small outlets – they had a roof or dome-shaped top to protect against rain or sun.

The Rundochniks were street vendors selling a variety of goods. Their assortment depended on the region and specialization. They could trade:

These traders placed their chisels in places with large crowds of people – in markets, near temples, in urban centers or at intersections. They knew how to attract customers with bright shouts, praised their product and knew how to bargain. The – runner is not just a seller, but a real master of his craft who knew how to interest and convince the buyer.

In Ukraine, runduchniks have become an integral part of the life of fairs and bazaars since the time of Kyivan Rus. Trade was the main source of income for many burghers, so urban markets were often teeming with coils that offered everything from homemade honey to fine silk.

Especially many rundukniks could be seen during fairs. For example, at the Sorochyn fair, they set up their stalls nearby, creating real shopping alleys where you could find goods for every taste.

With the development of infrastructure, trade has moved into more orderly forms. Covered markets, shops and supermarkets have emerged to replace the runes. The streets that used to fill the rundochniki became more orderly, and spontaneous trade gradually supplanted.

Although the rundukniks as a profession have disappeared, their spirit lives in modern bazaars and small fairs, where people still find joy in buying and selling right from the hands of the seller.