Pedro Téllez-Girón

What people wore

Cost of a garment in Cádiz

In 1554, a pair of men's breeches documented in a dowry agreement in Cádiz was valued at 8 reales.

Daily life

Wine preferred over unsafe water

Ordinary people in Habsburg Spain frequently preferred wine over water, as the water supply was often unsafe and could cause gastrointestinal illnesses.

Work

Working Days Tied to the Sun

Working hours were tied to the sun, with daily laborers often gathering at dawn and working until sunset, though some trades like baking and butchery extended into the night.

Music

The Vihuela in Everyday Life

The vihuela de mano, a six-stringed instrument resembling a modern guitar, was widely played in educated households for entertainment, rather than being restricted to royal courts.

At the table

Common drinks in Habsburg Spain

People rarely drank water due to poor quality and health risks, preferring wine that was often diluted or spiced. Another common drink in taverns was aloja, a rudimentary beverage made from carob fruits.

Getting around

Travel was by mule or horse

Ordinary people relied primarily on mules and horses to travel between towns, as wheeled vehicles were generally not used for long-distance passenger travel during this period.

What it cost

Cost of soldier footwear

A pair of single-soled shoes for a soldier cost 5 baços, while a pair with two soles cost 7 baços.