The Beginnings of the Merchants University of Bilbao (1481-1511). Corporation of Occupational Representation and Port Government Institution

Abstract

It is known the importance of mercantile corporations in the increment of medieval naval commerce. However, the analysis of the Merchants University of Bilbao, the largest Cantabrian port of pre-industrial Castile, has been relegated due to lack of documentation. But, thanks to the discovery of new sources, very abundant and of great documentary wealth, I present this study on the structure of the mercantile guild and its activity of port management before its constitution in a Consulate of the sea, instituted by the Crown in 1511.

Keywords

• universidad de mercaderes
• consulado de mar
• bilbao
• puerto
• navegación
• comercio