Anna Sophie of Prussia

At the table

Preparing fish roe or ikra

A popular dish known as ikra was made by mixing salted sturgeon or whitefish roe with pepper, onion, and sometimes vinegar or oil.

What people wore

Mandatory Head Coverings and Respect

Social conventions required both men and women to wear head coverings outdoors, but men were expected to remove their hats as a sign of respect when meeting superiors. In contrast, married women were required to keep their heads covered at all times, even when at home, and the removal of a woman's head covering in public was a serious violation.

Getting around

Efficient state posting system for travelers

For authorized travelers, the state-run posting system allowed horses to be changed at stations every 40 to 50 kilometers. Using this relay system, the 524-verst journey between Novgorod and Moscow could be completed in 72 hours.

What it cost

Income of a Hessian foot soldier

A foot soldier hired to serve the Landgrave of Hesse could earn an annual salary of 40 gulden, along with two sets of court clothing.

Music

Skomorokhi Performed Despite Church Bans

In 1551, the Stoglavy Council condemned skomorokhi (wandering minstrels) for performing devilish songs and dances at weddings and funeral commemorations. Despite these official prohibitions, people continued to enjoy these secular entertainments.

Daily life

Stoves served as kitchen and bed

The massive stove was the heart of the home, used for cooking, heating, and even sleeping, as it remained warm for 24 hours after being fired. Families often slept on elevated wooden platforms called polati, which were built near the stove to take advantage of the rising heat.