Maria Elisabeth Khevenhüller, Baroness of Aichelberg

What people wore

Noblewomen’s luxury clothing allowances

In the early 17th century, noblewomen were regulated by dress codes that specifically permitted them to wear gold chains valued at up to 100 gulden and pearl-adorned hoods worth 40 gulden.

Daily life

Children treated as adults

Children were typically treated like small adults and were expected to emulate adult behavior as they learned crafts and chores from their parents.

Work

Mining work schedules and breaks

Miners in Schwaz worked twelve-hour shifts that included approximately four hours of breaks, resulting in an effective eight-hour workday.

Music

Domestic music in early 17th-century Austria

The Linzer Orgeltabulatur, compiled between 1611 and 1613, contains 108 pieces that were intended for domestic recreation on the regal, a small reed-organ, rather than for church use.

At the table

Festive treats for the poor

Nonnenfürzle, a small, deep-fried pastry made from choux dough, was a rare and valued treat for the rural population on festive occasions. These delicacies were prepared in hot lard and rolled in sugar when enough money was available.

Getting around

Walking and riding were primary transport methods.

Most people traveled on foot, covering 20 to 35 kilometers per day depending on the terrain. Wealthier individuals traveled by horse or carriage, though poor road conditions and the risk of accidents often limited daily progress to similar distances.

What it cost

Beef price in 1600

In 1600, beef in Styria cost 2 Kreuzer per pound.