During the Commercial Revolution, which spanned from the late Middle Ages to the early modern period (roughly the 11th to the 18th centuries), several cities in Europe emerged as major commercial hubs. Among them, Venice and Antwerp were particularly significant.
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Venice: Located strategically on the Adriatic Sea, Venice became a key center for trade with the East, especially after the Crusades. It was known for its shipping prowess and its role in the import and export of goods such as spices, silks, and other luxury items. Venetian merchants established extensive trade networks that connected Europe to Asia and the Mediterranean.
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Antwerp: In the 16th century, Antwerp emerged as the leading commercial hub in Northern Europe. It was known for its thriving marketplace and became a center for the exchange of goods, finance, and ideas. The Antwerp Bourse (stock exchange) was one of the first of its kind, facilitating trade in various commodities.
Other notable cities that played significant roles during the Commercial Revolution include Amsterdam, which became a major financial and trading center in the 17th century, and Lisbon, which was the focal point of trade between Europe and its colonies, particularly after the Age of Exploration.
These cities were instrumental in the transition from a feudal economy to a more market-oriented economy, characterized by increased trade and commerce, the rise of banking, and the development of early capitalist practices.