Consulate of the Sea (Burgos)

 
Picture: Wikimedia Commons
 
The Consulate of the Sea is located in the urban area of Burgos, very close to the cathedral, on Paseo del Espolón. It is currently the headquarters of the Burgense Royal Academy of History and Fine Arts and also of the Provincial Academy of Drawing of Burgos.

The building, in an unmistakable Neoclassical style, was the work of the famous architect Manuel de Eraso. Construction was carried out between 1795 and 1796 and employed ashlar stone from the Hontoria quarries. The building was intended to serve as a school of drawing – a trade of incalculable importance during the 18th century for the elaboration of maps.

Among the characteristics that the construction presents is its padded first body, while the other upper bodies of the building appear completely smooth. Worth noting are its large and spacious rectangular windows topped with an elaborate iron balustrade, as well as its wide and regal pediment, where the inclusion of an anchor, the emblem of the Consulate of the Sea and a symbol of the sea, stands out in its profile. This is the most identifiable aspect of the building.

On its ground floor, which is fully open to the public, visitors will find an exhibition hall where travelling exhibitions of great interest to academics and students are held.

Because of its beauty and heritage, the Consulate of the Sea was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest in January 1995.
   
 
Location



Civil Buildings in Burgos

Religious Buildings in Burgos