The Arte dei Beccai was one of the fourteen Arti Minori. This guild managed the entire meat supply chain: the purchase of livestock, slaughtering, and retail sale to the public.
Included Professions
In addition to butchers, the guild included other food vendors:
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Innkeepers (Osti): Managers of inns and taverns.
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Poulterers (Pollivendoli): Sellers of poultry.
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Fishmongers (Pescivendoli): Sellers of fish.
Hygiene and Logistics
The history of this Guild is linked to significant urban changes:
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Origins: Until the 14th century, butchers worked in various areas of the city.
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Relocation to Ponte Vecchio: In 1442, the Municipality ordered all butchers to move to the Ponte Vecchio. This decision was made to improve hygiene: the bridge was far from residential houses, and waste could be thrown directly into the Arno River.
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The Old Market (Mercato Vecchio): Later, a large central slaughterhouse was built in Piazza del Mercato Vecchio (where Piazza della Repubblica stands today), and many shops moved there.
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Coat of Arms: A black ram (becco) with horns.
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Patron Saint: Saint Peter.
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Guild Headquarters: Palazzo dell’Arte dei Beccai, in Via Orsanmichele.
