City Administration

Administrative affairs were overseen by a council, and magistrates delivered justice. Council members were appointed for life. It was only in the 20th century that women first gained access to this kind of administrative position. Council members were responsible for appointing mayors, magistrates and sheriffs, and also determined the composition of their own council board. In practice this led to favouritism, with the ruling elite comprising just a few influential families. And then there were the city’s welfare institutions, which were headed by regents. These organisations focused on the care of those in need, such as orphans, ill and elderly people, and people with a disabilities. The regent was not paid for their work, but it was a popular and prestigious position.