The Guildsmen

• What role do the guildsmen play in Zurich’s social life today compared to the role they played in the Middle Ages?

The history of the Zimmerleuten goes back to the 14th century, to the year 1336, and ends in 1698. From this point onwards, their history developed more in a social direction. Due to the new political tasks, people joined a kind of association in which friendship was cultivated and in which the members of the guilds in Zurich knew each other well, or still do. There are 25 guilds and one society, the Constaffel. Since then, there has been a close connection that continues to this day. They cherish the historical legacy that has been built up over the past centuries. This can also be seen here: The carpenters‘ house, also known as the “Red Eagle”, is owned by the guild. The guild’s task is to maintain the house as well as possible so that it can be preserved for future generations.

• In the Middle Ages, guilds played an important role in the economy, education and defense of the city. Which of these traditional tasks have been preserved to this day?

Today, the guild no longer has any direct political influence on the city of Zurich; this is exercised by the city council, which is shaped by politics. The City Council reports to the Government Council. Today, the guild is just a social association that cultivates the traditions of the past and at the same time wants to preserve the future in this context.

• Sechseläuten is an integral part of Zurich’s tradition. How has the festival developed over time and what significance does it have for the guildsmen?

The “Bögg” used to be burnt on the field and is now burnt on the beautiful Valser quartzite floor of Sechsläutenplatz every year. In the middle of the Sechsläutenplatz is a circle in which the coats of arms of the various guilds are cast. This is where the Bögg is placed every year and its task is to drive away all evil spirits. It is lit at 18:00 and the aim is to drive away winter and bring in summer.

• How do the guildsmen get involved nowadays outside of traditional festivals such as Sechseläuten?

In the city itself, the guild has rather less influence and certainly not on any offices. In addition to Sechseläuten, there are also their own events in the guild houses. For example, there is a concert in September that is linked to other guilds. In the Münsterhof, there are sometimes events where Spätzli cannons are used to raise money for institutions.