Christian IV of Denmark

At the table

Kale sustained families through winter

Kale was a vital vitamin source for ordinary people because it was the only vegetable that could survive outdoors all winter. Consequently, home gardens were often referred to as kale-yards.

What people wore

Clothing as economic currency for artisans

Artisan families in towns like Elsinore used clothing as economic currency that could be turned into cash, and inventories show that garments were personal assets of significant value.

Getting around

Day travel and unpredictable crossings

A typical day's journey for travelers was roughly 30 km, though it could vary based on weather and road conditions. Crossing the straits between Danish provinces, such as the Great Belt, was an essential and often unpredictable part of travel that could take days if weather conditions were poor.

What it cost

Red leather stockings were popular fashion

In 1556, Danish princesses received red leather stockings, which were fashionable and worn by both men and women, though they could not be washed and were later replaced by linen stockings as prices dropped.

Music

Playing music was considered a game

During the 16th century, common people often referred to playing music as playing, using the term play for both instruments and games. Skilled musicians, known as pipers, were frequently expected to play the flute and small drum simultaneously at weddings and gatherings.

Daily life

Daily access to water and light

Water for household use was retrieved from a village well, while poor water quality often led people to drink beer instead. Lighting inside the home was sparse, provided only by tallow candles and the glowing embers from the hearth.