Margaret of Parma

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

Organized local transport market in Brabant

Local transport of commodities in Brabant was highly organized despite lacking corporations, relying on both professional carters and occasional transporters hired through tenders or temporary contracts. There was no price advantage for farmers offering transport services, as all contractors were paid at competitive market rates.

What it cost

Daily wages of a skilled worker

In 1500, a skilled worker in the Low Countries earned 5 stuivers per day, increasing to 6 stuivers by 1525.

Music

Loud instruments at village festivals

At village festivals in Flanders, loud instruments such as trumpets, oboes, flutes, fifes, bagpipes, and drums were commonly used to entertain the crowds.

Daily life

Housing conditions and light

Homes were typically made of wood, often with small windows covered in oiled parchment instead of glass, which allowed little sunlight inside. In poorer households, multiple families might share a single room for cooking, eating, and sleeping.