Merkantilmuseum Bozen
Museum | Bolzano | Trentino-Alto Adige | Italy
The Mercantile Museum Bolzano is located in the historic Mercantile building in the heart of the old town of Bolzano, between Silbergasse and Lauben. This building, the only Renaissance building in Bolzano, was built between 1708 and 1727 according to the plans of the Veronese architect Francesco Perotti and served as the seat of the Mercantile Magistracy for over a century, a special court established in 1635 by the Archduchess of Austria, Claudia de' Medici, to settle disputes between merchants.
Collections and Exhibitions:
The museum presents a variety of original documents, paintings, and art objects from the 17th and 18th centuries that illustrate the economic history of Bolzano as an important trading center between the North and the South. Particularly notable are the magnificent rooms such as the Hall of Honor, where the market court was held in the past, as well as the medieval vaulted cellars that provide a glimpse into underground Bolzano.
Current Use:
Today, the Mercantile Museum serves not only as a cultural institution but also as a venue for various events and exhibitions reflecting the rich trading and cultural life of Bolzano. It is a significant testimony to the city's history and offers visitors a deep insight into the economic and cultural development of Bolzano.
