Philip Prospero, Prince of Asturias

At the table

Meat was a rare luxury

Meat was a luxury for ordinary people, with beef being preferred because it was one-third cheaper than mutton. Many families survived on a mostly vegetarian diet of bread, legumes, and vegetables.

What people wore

Extremely tight and uncomfortable male fashion

At mid-century, men's fashion favored extremely tight garments, such as the jubón (doublet) and ropilla, often making it difficult to fasten clothing or move comfortably. Fashionable men wore stockings so thin that they were barely visible, and shoes often had to be force-fitted by cobblers to achieve the required tight look.

Getting around

Common modes of travel in mid-17th century Spain

During the mid-17th century, ordinary people primarily traveled on foot or horseback. Specialized transport like litters, pulled by mules, or human-powered sedan chairs were used in exceptional cases.

What it cost

Worker income and book prices in 1650

A Castilian laborer earned 13,300 maravedíes annually in 1650, meaning a week of wages could purchase a copy of Góngora's complete works.

Music

Church music featured multi-choir villancicos

Religious festivals like Corpus Christi featured elaborate musical performances in churches, including villancicos sung by multiple choirs accompanied by instruments.

Daily life

Waste management and public hygiene regulations

Many ordinary homes lacked indoor toilets, forcing residents to throw human waste into the streets at night, which was punishable by fines and exile.