Christina of Denmark

Getting around

Traveling by foot or wagon

In the 1500s, people typically traveled by foot, horseback, or in wagons, covering about 6 to 7 km per hour in a walking pace.

Daily life

Living in cramped, cold timber-framed houses

Most ordinary Danish farmers lived in small, cold timber-framed houses built directly on the ground, sharing their limited space with livestock to help stay warm. People typically slept in short, cupboard-like alcove beds, often sitting upright because they believed lying flat was unhealthy or due to limited space.

What people wore

Homemade clothing and purchased finery

Ordinary people often made their own clothing at home from materials like wool, linen, and animal skins, while finer items like silk or damask were purchased for special occasions.

Music

Popular chain dancing and musical accompaniment

In the mid-16th century, common people frequently danced in chains, often to the sound of a performer simultaneously playing a pipe and a small drum.

At the table

Beer as a daily thirst quencher

Because water quality was poor, ordinary families drank beer with every meal, including children; it was typically not strong and often quite sour.