Giltende

Giltende is a term derived from the Dutch word "gilden," which refers to a guild or association of craftsmen. In the context of the Netherlands, giltende specifically denotes the guilds that were established in the 14th century to regulate the crafts and trades of their members. These guilds played a crucial role in the economic and social life of medieval and early modern Dutch society.

The guilds were organized into various categories, each corresponding to a specific craft or trade. Membership in a giltende was often hereditary, and it provided its members with certain privileges and protections. These included the right to practice their craft without competition from non-members, the ability to set prices and standards, and the provision of apprenticeship training.

The guilds also had a significant impact on the urban landscape of the Netherlands. Many guild halls, or "gildenhuizen," were constructed as meeting places and workshops for the guild members. These buildings often featured distinctive architectural elements that reflected the craft or trade of the guild.

Despite their importance, the guilds began to decline in the 17th century as a result of various factors, including the rise of capitalism, the growth of urbanization, and the increasing influence of the state. Today, the legacy of the giltende can still be seen in the names of many Dutch streets and buildings, as well as in the continued use of the term "gilden" to refer to guilds and associations in the Netherlands.