Margaret Theresa of Spain

At the table

Wine replaced unsafe drinking water

Ordinary families often drank wine instead of water because water was frequently contaminated, and wine provided necessary calories. Wine was typically consumed diluted, sometimes mixed with spices.

What people wore

The extreme volume of the guardainfante

Women used a wire or wicker frame called a guardainfante to puff out their skirts, a trend so popular that it reached extreme sizes, sometimes making it difficult for two people to pass through a space. Although a 1639 law restricted this style, it remained widely accepted and worn across various social sectors throughout the mid-17th century.

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.