Archduke Johann Karl of Austria

What people wore

Noblewomen’s luxury clothing allowances

In the early 17th century, noblewomen were regulated by dress codes that specifically permitted them to wear gold chains valued at up to 100 gulden and pearl-adorned hoods worth 40 gulden.

Daily life

The shared household-family life

Ordinary people lived in a household-family, a shared community where parents, children, grandparents, and staff worked together under one roof.

Work

Mining work schedules and breaks

Miners in Schwaz worked twelve-hour shifts that included approximately four hours of breaks, resulting in an effective eight-hour workday.

Music

Domestic music in early 17th-century Austria

The Linzer Orgeltabulatur, compiled between 1611 and 1613, contains 108 pieces that were intended for domestic recreation on the regal, a small reed-organ, rather than for church use.

At the table

Common beer consumption

Beer was the standard daily beverage for most people, and by the 16th century, many taverns brewed their own dark, top-fermented beer. Wine was generally reserved for the wealthy or special occasions, as it was significantly more expensive.

Getting around

Walking and riding were primary transport methods.

Most people traveled on foot, covering 20 to 35 kilometers per day depending on the terrain. Wealthier individuals traveled by horse or carriage, though poor road conditions and the risk of accidents often limited daily progress to similar distances.

What it cost

Beef price in 1600

In 1600, beef in Styria cost 2 Kreuzer per pound.