In the news1534–1537
Public access to the postal system
The postal system opened to the general public in the Holy Roman Empire, allowing anyone to send mail for a fee and transforming communication routines.
Berlin, 22 Dec 1530 – Halberstadt, 1552
13 facts2 sources
22 Dec 1530
Born in Berlin
1551
Roman Catholic Archbishop of Magdeburg
1552
Roman Catholic Bishop of Halberstadt
1552
Dies in Halberstadt
He lived through 3 decades. Pick one to hear and see what it was like around Berlin.
General history, not a record about the family: each item says where it comes from.
In the news1534–1537
The postal system opened to the general public in the Holy Roman Empire, allowing anyone to send mail for a fee and transforming communication routines.
At the table
Pork was a preferred, expensive luxury
Pork was the most prized meat for ordinary families, often costing one-third more than beef in the late medieval period. While commoners ate meat, it was particularly valued as a sign of prosperity and was often eaten during holidays or festivals.
What people wore
Strict sumptuary laws restricted attire
Sumptuary laws from 1530 strictly forbade common country folk from wearing gold, silver, pearls, silk, ostrich feathers, or slashed clothing to maintain social distinctions. Furthermore, peasant women were limited to using simple fur types like lamb or goat, while any elaborate decorations or expensive accessories were officially prohibited.
Getting around
Slow pace of travel
Travel was slow and unpredictable, with average travelers covering only 30 to 45 kilometers per day, though some could reach up to 80 kilometers. Journeys were often delayed by poor road conditions, weather, or the need to stop for horse fodder every 20 to 40 kilometers.
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
Strict regulation of dancing and music
City authorities strictly regulated festivals, banning "useless and indecent dancing" and restricting music performances at weddings to a maximum of three musicians.
Daily life
Emergence of village schools in Hesse
Before the Reformation, village schools were reportedly non-existent in Hesse, but by 1556, visitors noted the establishment of seven village schools in the central region of the principality. Martin Luther emphasized that schools were necessary for both boys and girls to learn to conduct the affairs of life.