Guilds

The guilds (or scuole) were organized unions for workers in a range of urban trades and professions, such as cobblers, carpenters, barbers and even artists. Each guild had its own president, patron saint and banner. The scuola di muratori (masons) had St. Elijah as their patron saint, while carpenters were protected by Saint Joseph. The Chandax sailors' guild was named after the Virgin Mary of Mercy, and was based at the Church of St. Nikolaos.