Lamoral II Claudius Franz, Count of Thurn and Taxis

At the table

Beer as the customary drink

Beer was the customary drink for people of all ages because water was often contaminated. It was served in various jugs and was cheaper than wine, which was considered an elite drink.

What people wore

Importance of linen underwear layers

Both men and women wore linen underwear next to the skin to protect their woollen outer garments from dirt and body oils. Linen was preferred because it was easier to wash and less irritating to the skin than wool.

Getting around

Affordable and Social Canal Travel

Barges were favored for their predictability and comfort, often serving as a social space where passengers could eat meals. While the wealthy traveled by private coach, the barge provided an affordable, reliable alternative for the middle class and even the poor, who were sometimes subsidized by urban welfare funds.

What it cost

Food prices in the 17th century

A pig cost 24 livres, while a bushel of red wheat was priced at 47 sous in the 17th century.

Music

Religious songs adapted from court music

The church sometimes repurposed popular secular French court songs, known as airs de cour, by writing new religious lyrics to the same melodies for the congregation to sing.

Daily life

Schooling in a single room annex

In rural schools during the 17th century, classes for boys and girls of all ages were held in a single common room, often located in an annexe of a house or public building. Misbehaving children were punished by a strike on the palm of the hand with a ferule.