For many centuries, putrid air was seen as the main cause of disease. That’s why people did all they could to prevent stench.
Rubbish was carted off and excrement was washed into cesspools. Streets and squares were paved to make them easier to sweep.
People caught dumping rubbish had to pay hefty fines.

Utrecht Town Hall Bridge and Surroundings, 1779. Inv.nr. 20544