Isabel Osorio

At the table

Common drinks in Habsburg Spain

People rarely drank water due to poor quality and health risks, preferring wine that was often diluted or spiced. Another common drink in taverns was aloja, a rudimentary beverage made from carob fruits.

What people wore

Clothing as a valuable family asset

For many rural families, clothing was so precious that it was never discarded; it was often reused, sold to cover funeral costs, or given as part of a domestic servant's wages.

Getting around

Limited river navigation

Rivers in the region were generally not navigable, except for the Ebro, where small boats transported goods like grain, wine, and iron.

What it cost

Meat Consumption and Hunting Practices

Lamb was the most consumed meat, and hunting was crucial to supplement low calorie diets rather than just being a noble sport.

Music

Social customs of the youth groups

Young men formed social groups called Los Mozos, where joining on the feast of Saint Agatha cost one real. Members shared communal items like guitars, wine skins, and playing cards for their social gatherings.

Daily life

Multipurpose household furniture

Homes often lacked specialized rooms, meaning the same piece of furniture could serve as a seat during the day and be converted into a bed at night.