Alongside the infrastructure dedicated to production and transport, Mantua had numerous spaces dedicated to trade.
The squares and porticos hosted shops, markets and artisanal activities, becoming places of meeting and economic exchange. In particular, the porticos represented a sort of commercial centre ante litteram: covered spaces that allowed commercial activities to be carried out in every season, in particular way around Herbs Square. Surrounded by porticos And shops, the square represented the beating heart of the city's economy, a meeting place where merchants, artisans and citizens exchanged goods, information and relationships.
Even today its name preserves the memory of this ancient mercantile vocation.
Herbs Square
Shop houses
Merchant's House
House of Messer Viani
