Maria von Habsburg

At the table

Subsisting on chestnuts and herbs

In some regions, such as Asturias, when grain was scarce, families subsisted for six or more months a year on chestnuts, nuts, and wild herbs. These natural resources were essential for survival when bread, the dietary staple, was unavailable.

What people wore

Cost of fashionable accessories in reales

In 1680, a vara (roughly 84 cm) of smoke-colored fabric for a mantle was valued at seven and a half reales, while a luxurious fan could cost as much as six escudos. These prices illustrate the significant investment required for fashionable accessories, which were sometimes bought at the expense of necessities like basic clothing for the poor.

Getting around

Carriage travel and incidents in mid-17th century Madrid

Travel by carriage was largely reserved for the wealthy or noble; these vehicles were uncomfortable as they lacked suspension and had their body fixed to the wheel axles. Traffic congestion in Madrid was severe enough that in January 1655, a dispute over a coach accident led an offended noble to attack the governor's mules with a sword.

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

Provocative dances dominated social life

Popular, provocative dances like the zarabanda and chacona originated in the streets and were often criticized for their lascivious nature, yet they remained immensely popular.

Daily life

Water access for common households

Ordinary people often lacked access to private wells or fountains, relying on water carriers to bring them fresh water.