Carlo di Savoia, Duc de Chablais

What people wore

Soldiers' neckcloths indicated their rank

In the Duchy of Modena, soldiers' neckcloths served as rank identifiers, with ordinary soldiers tying them at the back and corporals wearing them with the ends hanging down at the front.

Daily life

Rural home layout and food storage

Rural homes featured a spacious kitchen that served as the heart of daily life, where families prepared bread, processed pork, and performed household chores. The kitchen was typically south-facing to catch the sun, while cellars were positioned on the north side to keep food cool.

Work

Nature of the working day

Urban stable workers typically received 35-45% of their earnings in-kind, such as food, lodging, or clothing, while day laborers relied more heavily on cash payments. Additionally, those working in charitable institutions faced rigidly fixed daily work schedules under strict supervision.

Music

Music in streets and squares

Outdoor public events featured brass and percussion musicians who accompanied processions and rituals in streets and squares. These performances blended with the sounds of the crowd, creating a conversational atmosphere shared across different social groups.

At the table

Winter pig slaughter and blood usage

In December, families slaughtered pigs and used every part, including filtering and cooking the blood with breadcrumbs, cheese, and spices to make a dish called cervellati.

Getting around

Travel by foot, mule, or carriage

For most people, travel between towns along the mountainous Via Vandelli was done on foot, horseback, or by mule, while only the flatter Emilian stretch could accommodate carriages. A full journey between Modena and Massa took about one week, even with postal service arrangements.

What it cost

Generous daily wine rations

Workers in northern Italy often received significant daily wine rations, sometimes ranging from 1 to over 5 liters, as part of their in-kind compensation.