Trades Ward

The density of guildhalls, marketplaces, and trade houses here is remarkable. Sea Ward and North Ward consider themselves too nice to be disturbed by the hustle and bustle of commerce, Castle Ward is too expensive besides The Waterdeep Marketplace, Southern Ward is lower status, and Dock Ward is considered out-right dangerous. Thus, this remains the economic centre of the city.
Of course, clandestine dealings between those who consider themselves too good for Dock Ward are sometimes done here too...

Demographics

Dwarves and gnomes are over-represented here. It is the home of the middle class in many cases, though there are so many buildings dedicated to commerce that generally, only those who live above or adjacent to their stores have their homes here.

Government

As part of the city, Trades Ward is, of course, ruled by the Lords of Waterdeep. However, this is the only part of the city where the guilds still hold a lot of sway and those who do business here do well being on friendly terms with them.

Architecture

Trades Ward is a combination of small alleyways and streets wide enough to easily make room for a wagon or two. There are buildings cramped together as tight as possible, and several open spaces for markets. Buildings are often old but sturdy enough to have withstood the test of time. Those who are newer tend to adhere to the same philosophy, or soon be torn down and replaced by a building that does.

Alternative Name(s)

Trade Ward

Type

District

Location under

Waterdeep

Owning Organization

Lords of Waterdeep