Mikołaj Mielecki

At the table

Fish and salt preservation

Ordinary diets included fish such as carp and pike, which were often preserved with salt to supplement food supplies beyond the harvest.

What people wore

Popularity of slitted clothing

Slitting sleeves and clothes to reveal contrasting linings or shirts underneath became a very popular trend in the early 16th century. This style was adopted by various social classes as a touch of flirtation and intimacy.

Getting around

Importance of River Transport

Because land roads were often muddy and difficult, river transport using various vessels was essential for long-distance travel and the movement of heavy goods across the Commonwealth.

What it cost

Purchasing power of a gold florin

A single gold florin could buy 100 liters of beer, 40 chickens, or even 6 hares, demonstrating the wide variety of goods available for a single high-value coin.

Music

Popular dances in the Renaissance

People in towns like Lublin enjoyed dancing to secular tunes such as Zakłułam się cierniem, which was popular enough to be noted in music collections across Europe.

Daily life

Early schooling focused on Latin and arithmetic

Rural schooling became nearly universal by the early 16th century, though attendance was low, focusing on Latin prayers and basic arithmetic skills.