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Offered languages
- German
- English
Dive into the 16th century and discover how a trading city became the epicenter of global navigation. Accompany your guide Max and the historian Julia on the footsteps of Gerhard Mercator, the man who mapped the world. From his dramatic flight from the Inquisition to the invention of the projection that still drives your GPS today – this tour contrasts the harsh, confined reality of life in the Renaissance with the boundless expanse of Mercator's genius. Discover hidden archaeological sites, touch the stones of medieval houses, and stand before the original, invaluable globes that forever changed humanity's place in the cosmos.
- 1.3 km self-guided tour with 6 stations over 72 min.
- Ideal for everyone interested in history & memory and urbanism & innovation
Excitingly told in a podcast style by experts and locals
- Suitable audio content, AI guide, and navigation via the app
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
From Duisburg main station with local public transport towards Mercatorbrunnen. From the nearest stop, it is a few minutes' walk to the Mercator Fountain. Please check the current connection with the local transport association on the day of travel.
From the Cultural and City History Museum, walk to the nearest stop and take local public transport back to Duisburg Central Station. The starting point is the Cultural and City History Museum in Duisburg. Please check the current connection on the day of travel.
Itinerary
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1
A 19th-century fountain in honor of Mercator, which illustrates the contradiction between his public legacy and his private, pacifist reality.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
The late Gothic church where Mercator's grave is located. It illuminates his religious ambivalence and his physical decline.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
The historical trade center that illustrates the economic drivers behind Mercator's cartography.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
The archaeological excavation site of Mercator's former house and workshop, where the famous projection was invented in 1569.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
The oldest surviving residential building in Duisburg offers a tangible insight into the residential architecture of the 16th century.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
The museum houses the 'Mercator Treasury' with its original globes, atlases, and instruments.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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