Great Guild

As you turn to your right, you’ll spot two remarkable buildings. The large building with its distinct Gothic shapes and crenellations once housed the Great Guild, while its neighbor with the tall tower was the home of the Small Guild. These two structures were the heart of power for the wealthy German merchants and one of the city’s most influential institutions. The history of the Guilds dates back to the 13th century, but they officially took shape in 1353 when the merchants split from the artisans to form their own organization. The master craftsmen, or productive class—those who made the goods the merchants sold—were placed in the Small Guild next door. Together, they reflect the city’s social hierarchy: on one side, the commercial elite, and on the other, the world of craftsmanship. It was also this Great Guild, known for its exclusivity, that is behind the famous cats installed on the roof of the building across the street.