Guild Houses

The Leie canal

a closer view

even closer

Detailed facades of medieval guild houses on Grasleistraat

History:

During the 14th century in Ghent, artisans or craftsmen gained prestige and hence were organized into guilds. These associations were developed for the organization of labour as well as to function as real political associations with a voice in the city's policy. As a group, the guild members were not only part of the municipal militia, they also went to church as a group, participated in processions, and welcomed rulers. They had their own guild houses, their chapels, dedicated to the patron saint of their profession, and even their own hospitals for sick and old members and their widows.(source)