The Ars Burgensis Foundation has presented the Ars Mercatorum route, a tour through the historic upper quarter of Burgos that pays homage to the merchants of the 15th and 16th centuries. The initiative includes access to spaces such as San Nicolás de Bari and the Golden Staircase, accompanied by a guide who details the city's commercial boom. For locals, it offers a cultural leisure option to rediscover historic corners.
Digital guide and signage mark the commercial itinerary 🗺️
The development of the route is supported by a printed guide and physical signage at key points along the itinerary. The Foundation has worked with local historians to document trade routes and buildings associated with guilds and merchants. No specific mobile app has been implemented, but the material includes QR codes that link to supplementary content. The accessibility of the spaces has been reviewed for small groups, with scheduled guided tours.
Merchants of the past, tourists of the present: barter works 💰
The merchants of the 16th century brought wool and cloth; today's bring selfies and a desire to spend on souvenirs. The Ars Mercatorum route turns tourists into the new merchants, only instead of barter they use credit cards. At the end of the tour, one leaves with the feeling of having made a good deal: cultural heritage in exchange for a walk. And without having to sell one's soul, which is already an improvement.