Field report: Mercateum – the largest walk-in globe Königsbrunn

The Mercateum is the the largest accessible globe, a monument to trade relations between India and the Augsburg region in Königsbrunn. Situated between the Königstherme spa and the local grammar school, the globe is made of a world map by the Spanish cosmographer Diego Ribero. To ensure that the spherical monument rests securely and permanently above the water surface, master roofers from the local firm Wildgrube & Sohn GmbH coated the asphalt and concrete water basin with the Triflex ProTect waterproofing system. This is a project where the 2-component waterproofing resin can prove its great processing qualities as well as its suitability for hydraulic structures. The ten-metre-high globe is enthroned on a platform in the middle of a water basin, a faithful projection of the world map drawn on parchment in 1529. Inside, exhibits on five levels provide insights into the beginnings and heyday of long-distance trade. Two footbridges lead visitors over the surrounding water basin into the steel skeleton building.