Since the Middle Ages, most trades had been organized into guilds. Among other things, these guilds regulated training and monitored the quality and prices of goods. Most guilds maintained their own meeting places, trade halls, and inns, where traveling journeymen were welcomed. Guild emblems displayed on the buildings shaped the cityscape. The interiors of the guild halls were also often adorned with elaborately designed hall emblems that expressed the pride of the craft.
With the introduction of freedom of trade, the guild system finally dissolved over the course of the 19th century. Many craft emblems have since found their way into the collection of the Erlangen City Museum. The guild emblem of the Erlangen comb makers from 1841: The artfully carved structure, inside which combs made of horn and ivory are displayed, resembles a temple to craftsmanship.
Photo: André Widmann/City Museum)
More About the City's History
City archive
The Erlangen City Archive is the official memory of Erlangen. The main tasks of the city archive include the permanent storage and cataloging of collections.
Short Stories from the City
Erlangen has a long and interesting history. There's a lot to tell. A look back.
City archive
The Erlangen City Archive is the official memory of Erlangen. The main tasks of the city archive include the permanent storage and cataloging of collections.
Short Stories from the City
Erlangen has a long and interesting history. There's a lot to tell. A look back.