This building used to host the Consulado del Mar (Sea Consulate); this institution was of particular relevance at the end of the Middle Ages.  The building was created by the merchants of Burgos to deal and control the trade with Flanders from the harbour of Santander. Its neoclassical facade was built at the end of the 18th century.  This main front is crowned by a pediment featuring an anchor, which is the symbol of the Consulate.  Nowadays it is home to the Burgos Academy of Art and is the official site of the Burgos Academy of History and Fine Arts.