Most of us today are probably familiar with the concept of birthstones—precious gems associated with each month, like a petrological Zodiac. It turns out birthstones are more or less an invention of modern jewelry manufacturers, whose meanings all boil down to “Buy this ring.” But this is boring. So I thought, why not make birthstones mean something today by looking at their superpowers according to the Middle Ages?
The Fifth Crusade saw European forces launch an ambitious invasion of Egypt. This book delves into the military dimensions of the campaign, examining the grand strategy of the Crusaders and the tactical manoeuvres employed during the protracted siege of Damietta, which spanned over 18 months.
What do the Three Wise Men and the Crusades have in common? Discover how medieval kings, knights, and emperors drew inspiration from the Magi’s journey, transforming their relics and symbolism into a powerful testament of faith, humility, and sacrifice.
When you visit the Austrian city of Tulln, on the banks of the Danube River, you can see the figures as you approach the park on the banks of the Danube River. The figure of a woman gracefully holds her skirts as her headdress seems to flutter in the wind. Opposite her, at the centre of the tableau, a man stands with one foot forward; his left hand grasps the sword at his side, yet he holds his right forearm across his chest, and his head is uncovered. He is clearly a warrior, but he has not come to fight. This is Etzel, or Attila, striding larger than life out of the medieval German epic poem the Nibelungenlied (The Lay of the Nibelungs) to meet his bride Kriemhild against the backdrop of Tulln’s scenic gardens and riverside park. The monument seems almost overly grand for its surroundings; it looks old. However, it was actually erected in 2005.
The renowned Sutton Hoo burial site is famed for its opulent grave goods, but their origins remain a mystery. A newly published study in The English Historical Review presents a groundbreaking theory, offering “a startlingly new view of early Anglo-Saxon history.”
This week on The Medieval Podcast, Danièle speaks with CJ Jones about Dominican nuns, their theological sophistication, and how left their own unique mark on the Middle Ages.
Waves of human migration across Europe during the first millennium AD have been revealed in a groundbreaking study. By analysing Ancient DNA with a novel method, researchers have reconstructed detailed patterns of population movements during the Iron Age, the fall of the Roman Empire, the early medieval ‘Migration Period,’ and the Viking Age.
What can medieval court records reveal about the lives of women? This book examines the legal disputes involving women in three English towns, uncovering their roles in cases ranging from debts and trade regulations to local trespass laws and public disorder.
There weren’t many police officers in the medieval world. And, when you see what they got up to, that is perhaps just as well.
Many foods still enjoyed around the world were invented in the Middle Ages, such as these six foods and drinks.
In 1300AD Boniface VIII started a tradition of forgiveness and (possibly) hell-raising that continues this year On Maundy Thursday - April 7th - 1300, Pope Boniface VIII stood on the balcony of his papal basilica in Rome. Around him, the city flocked with pilgrims, many of whom had come to see the Pope that day and receive his blessing.
It’s the start of a new year, and you’re wondering what lies ahead. In medieval Italy, a 14th-century merchant created a unique guide to predict the fortunes of the year based on the day January 1st fell. These predictions span weather, agriculture, health, and even political events—offering a fascinating glimpse into the medieval mindset.
