Joseph I, Holy Roman Emperor

Getting around

Travel on foot for commoners

Ordinary people generally traveled on foot, covering 20 to 35 kilometers per day, as horse-drawn transport like coaches was expensive and largely reserved for the wealthy or official use.

Daily life

Winter schooling for children

Regular schooling for children was typically only possible during the winter months when agricultural work was less demanding. Often, there was only one classroom with a single teacher who instructed all the children regardless of their different ages.

What people wore

Durable leather garments for men

Ordinary men in this period wore durable leather clothing, such as the Pelzrock, which was made of sheepskin worn with the fur inside and featured decorative embroidery. Peasant men also frequently wore waistcoats made of leather, known as Joppen, which were valued for their ability to protect against wind and rain.

Music

Authorities banned music during crises

Music performances were frequently forbidden by authorities during times of crisis, such as the appearance of a comet in 1681 or during the Turkish wars of 1605.

At the table

Grain Porridges and Legumes Dominated Daily Meals

Most ordinary families relied heavily on a grain-based diet, frequently eating porridges made from oats, barley, or millet, and consuming legumes like peas, beans, and lentils. Meat was rarely eaten, and when served, it was often boiled in soup to make the most of the ingredients.