Princess Maria Vittoria Margherita of Savoy

What people wore

Poor citizens wore cheap cloth slippers

In 18th-century Modena, the poor frequently wore cloth slippers, which were extremely cheap and easily made from scrap materials.

Getting around

Forced labor for winter road maintenance

To keep the road clear during harsh winters, local men were forbidden from leaving their homes for six months, from December to May, under penalty of imprisonment. They were assigned specific sections to clear of snow, and the work was paid for by the state.

At the table

Winter pig slaughter and blood usage

In December, families slaughtered pigs and used every part, including filtering and cooking the blood with breadcrumbs, cheese, and spices to make a dish called cervellati.

Music

Music in streets and squares

Outdoor public events featured brass and percussion musicians who accompanied processions and rituals in streets and squares. These performances blended with the sounds of the crowd, creating a conversational atmosphere shared across different social groups.

Daily life

Education and work for poor children

Religious institutions, such as the local poorhouse, provided basic education for children, which included lessons in reading and writing alongside rigorous work schedules and religious observance. Many children also learned trades by working in city workshops or spinning mills under the guidance of older laborers.

What it cost

Generous daily wine rations

Workers in northern Italy often received significant daily wine rations, sometimes ranging from 1 to over 5 liters, as part of their in-kind compensation.