Merchants' Manor Houses Tour

Explore the historic center of Sanlúcar while delving into the elegant architecture of the Merchants' Manor Houses. This tour invites participants to uncover the splendor enjoyed by those who ventured to the New World.

Merchants' Manor Houses Tour

The journey begins at 11 am adjacent to the Sanlúcar de Barrameda Tourism Office, where we'll kick off the experience with a tasting of Manzanilla, the region's notable wine, ensuring a delightful introduction to our adventure.

Over the course of a two-hour guided exploration, we will navigate the historic center of Sanlúcar, tracing the footsteps of the Merchants' Manor Houses. The wealth generated from trade with the New World during the 17th and 18th centuries led to the creation of these exquisite residences, often resembling opulent palaces. Our first stop will be at Francisco Gil de Ledesma's House, a wine cellar previously owned by the city's Honorary Mayor.

Next, we will visit the Gómez Barreda House, known for its stunning baroque facade, which illustrates the power wielded by its former inhabitants. Following this, we’ll arrive at the Santo Domingo Convent, where many religious figures resided as they awaited their voyages. Shortly after, we will pause in front of the Casa de Ceballos, another remarkable representation of 18th-century architectural style.

As we progress, we’ll delve into the workings of the trade system that enriched merchants, next to the old Sanluqueña branch of the Casa de la Contratación. This administrative body oversaw all transactions between the New and Old Worlds. While its headquarters were located in Seville, the Sanlúcar office was pivotal in various official operations.

The tour will conclude at 1 pm in the Plaza del Cabildo, a vibrant area renowned for its tapas, situated in the very heart of Sanlúcar.