The History of the Americas in Seville
Merchants’ House and Archives, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987
Why take this tour?
Because it serves as the link between Spain and Latin America: it was the trading post for the Port of the Indies and the place where documents attesting to the relations between the two continents are preserved.
Because the building itself is a work of art and a testament to the city’s history. Painters such as Murillo worked there; its shelves are made of American wood; and it houses original artifacts from that period.
Why take this tour with me?
Since I specialize in the history of the Americas and its ties to Seville, you can count on receiving high-quality information, and I’ll be available to answer any questions you may have.
Unlike large group tours, you’ll have a professional guide all to yourself. It will be a more personalized tour, and you’ll be able to ask as many questions as you like, since I’ll be at your complete disposal.
You’ll be supporting high-quality, more sustainable tourism in Seville, while also ensuring that your guide has the historical knowledge needed to lead the tour.
What you’ll do
- You’ll start by exploring its exterior and its origins. Do you think it’s a coincidence that it’s located right between the two main buildings? And while we’re on the subject of its exterior, we’ll also discuss something you won’t want to miss: the Cross of the Oaths.
- Once inside, you’ll discover the different parts of the building, where you’ll find some fascinating artifacts, such as a 16th-century safe and a cannon from a 17th-century galleon.
- It’s time to explore the corridors and shelves where these 9 kilometers (5,6 miles) of documents—and not just written documents!—were once stored. The Archivo de Indias also houses illustrations, codices from pre-Hispanic cultures, maps, facsimiles, and the famous (though few) royal maps, that is, the model maps where new discoveries were recorded—by the way, did you know they were kept secret?
- Finally, the Archivo de Indias often hosts exhibitions so that visitors can see original documents with their own eyes. So you’ll likely be able to enjoy a free exhibition.
Prices
| number of people | prices per group |
| 1 person | 30€ |
| 2 people | 45€ |
| 3 people | 60€ |
| 4 people | 75€ |
| 5 people | 90€ |
| 6 people | 100€ |
| 7 people | 110€ |
| +1 person | +10€ |
| Children ages 5 – 12 | 5€ |
| Children under 5 | FREE |
Important information
- Groups of up to 15 people
- The guided tour of the current temporary exhibition is not included
- Duration: 1 hour
- Meeting point: Entrance of Archivo de Indias.
- Languaje: English
- Reservations: must be made at least 48 hours in advance
Contact me to schedule your visit:
This tour is designed and created by me, a Sevillian historian -specializing in the history of the Americas- and licensed tour guide. If you want, you can get to know me a little better here.
Image source: photos by gavilansevilla.com
