A new study reveals how medieval English queens used gift-giving as a powerful tool to secure alliances and demonstrate authority. From Margaret of Anjou’s lavish gold cups to Elizabeth of York’s symbolic gestures, the research uncovers the political and social significance behind these royal acts of generosity.
Medieval historians have often downplayed how the First Pandemic, also known as the Justinianic Plague, affected Britain. A new study is challenging this notion, and even suggests that the plague may have struck the British Isles at least twice.
Hidden away for centuries in a Transylvanian church tower, a forgotten medieval library has come to light, revealing treasures as old as the 9th century. This extraordinary discovery of manuscripts, books, and documents offers a rare glimpse into the intellectual and cultural life of medieval Romania.
A fragment of a 10th-century Viking sword, the first of its kind discovered in the Netherlands, has been unearthed near the Frisian town of Witmarsum. This remarkable find, a pommel cap that once adorned the hilt of a sword, offers new insights into the Viking Age and the pivotal role Frisia played as a hub in the Norse world.
The Magna Carta, sealed in 1215, was born out of rebellion, as England’s barons forced King John to curb his abuses of power. Here is a complete translation of this important medieval document.
This translation of a 13th-century cookbook delves into the rich culinary traditions of Andalusian and North African cuisine. Featuring 480 recipes, it guides you through preparing meat and vegetarian dishes, crafting breads and pastries, and exploring the fascinating world of medieval food.
What do a half-man, half-horse archer and a seductive half-fish siren have in common? In medieval art, they engage in an eternal struggle, symbolising the battle between vice and virtue.
Owning a warhorse was more than a necessity for medieval knights—it was a symbol of their status and a critical asset in battle. England’s warrior aristocracy had multiple avenues to secure these prized animals, ranging from bustling horse fairs to deals with foreign merchants and independent traders.
A conversation with Nancy Bisaha about the origins of the idea of “Europe” as a place of identity and not just geography. One of its first theorists was the Italian humanist Aeneas Piccolomini (later Pope Pius II), who was in part reacting to the fall of Constantinople to the Ottoman Turks. The problem of whom to include and exclude as Europeans was there from the start. We talk about Aeneas himself and the siege of the City.
Can we learn from people in the Middle Ages when it comes to living sustainably? This book examines topics such as recycling, microfinance and minimalism to show how the medieval world offers lessons to the modern one.
Apollo Art Auctions is holding its Ancient Art and Antiquities auction on Sunday, November 18th. Dozens of medieval items will be going up for bid. Here are a few of the featured items going up for sale.
A place of supernatural encounters both incredibly good and spectacularly bad, the Otherworld featured in stories and songs throughout the Middle Ages, especially on the storied isle of Ireland. This week on The Medieval Podcast, Danièle speaks with Lisa Bitel about what the Otherworld was like, why Otherworldly beings were interested in humankind, and where we find these enchanting stories.
