How was the social system structured in Venice?

The social system in Venice was hierarchical and largely based on wealth and noble lineage. At the top were the patricians, who controlled the government and held significant economic power, followed by the wealthy merchant class known as the cittadino. Below them were the artisans and laborers, while the lowest social tier consisted of the impoverished and marginalized groups. This structure was reinforced by strict laws and customs that maintained the power dynamics and exclusivity of the ruling class.