Eleanor of Austria

At the table

Beer was the standard daily beverage

Most people drank beer instead of water, which was often considered unsafe, and children also consumed beer. Wine was also popular, though it was frequently diluted with water.

What people wore

Flemish women's wool dresses

In the early 16th century, Flemish women frequently wore dresses of black light-weight wool (serge) that were so fitted they revealed their body shape. When going out, women would lift the edges of their outer dresses and secure them at the waist with iron hooks.

Getting around

Staple rights could delay travelers significantly

Staple rights in cities like Grave or Venlo could force merchants to offer their goods for sale for several days, significantly delaying journeys.

What it cost

Cost of staple foods

A kilogram of rye bread cost between 1 and 2 stuivers, while a liter of milk or beer also cost 1 stuiver.

Music

Margaret of Austria's rare dance book

Margaret of Austria possessed a dance book from around 1500 containing 58 songs with gold staves and silver notes, which included dance instructions in letters below the music.

Daily life

Elementary schooling in villages

Almost every village or parish had at least one elementary school where children paid a few pennies per month per subject. Tuition for poor children was often covered by the Church or philanthropists.