Skilled trades and commerce were important for its development, and retailers had their own guilds. In the 15^th century, the city was fortified with a wall, and its streets acquired a Renaissance flavour. Due to a series of natural disasters, the main trade road was rerouted past Kamnik in the 17^th century. In spite of the economic regression that resulted, the cultural life of the town continued to flourish. Today, Kamnik is known as a place where lovers of nature and mountaineering meet.