Peter II of Portugal

What people wore

Fishermen's work and festive attire

Fishermen typically wore simple linen drawers, a co-called sertum vest, and a wool hat for work, but dressed in blue cloth trousers, vests, and jackets for Sundays and town visits. Silver-buckled shoes were reserved for major feast days like weddings or Saint Peter's Day.

Daily life

Low literacy rates in Porto region

In the region of Porto during this period, only about 16% of the population could read and write.

Music

Cornetto and dulcian in church services

By the early 17th century, the cornetto and dulcian became standard instruments in major Portuguese cathedrals to double or replace vocal parts. The dulcian was especially versatile, serving as a musical bridge between singers and instrumentalists, and was played during Sunday services and holy days.

At the table

Shared meals in humble families

Ordinary families often ate together from a single large red clay dish, consuming staples like potatoes, vegetables, fried bacon, and sardines, occasionally accompanied by a thin drizzle of olive oil.

Getting around

Social Restrictions on Transport

Common people typically traveled on foot or by donkey, as riding mules or horses was restricted to the nobility, high clergy, and military leaders until the 16th century.