Where the Middle Ages Begin
What did people eat in the early Middle Ages? Or, more precisely, what were they advised to eat? This sixth-century text, presented here in an edited translation, offers dietary advice and recipes intended for a Frankish ruler.
What everyday objects did people use in the Middle Ages? From clothing and household necessities to tools for work and warfare, these 25 medieval items were essential to daily life and shaped how people lived, ate, and survived.
Delve into the pivotal figures of the Middle Ages whose enduring legacies shaped the course of history. From visionary leaders and profound scholars to prolific writers and formidable warriors, these individuals left an indelible mark on medieval society.
Discover the 50 most significant events of the Middle Ages, spanning the years 500 to 1500.
Here are seven vivid facts about colour in the Middle Ages
In medieval times, many unique jobs, such as Ale-wife and Groom of the Stool, were essential but have since vanished. Discover these obsolete occupations and how historical changes led to their disappearance.
Are you wanting to talk more like someone from the Middle Ages? We have a list of 30 great sayings and proverbs that you can use in your conversations.
Have you wondered what a medieval king did on a typical day? Thanks to Christine de Pizan, we have an account of what daily life was like for King Charles V of France.
Some of our most popular phrases have a long history, including some that go back to the Middle Ages.
Want to know what kind of jobs there were in the Middle Ages? A unique source from the 15th century gives us some beautiful images of medieval people at work.
What did people eat in the early Middle Ages? Or, more precisely, what were they advised to eat? This sixth-century text, presented here in an edited translation, offers dietary advice and recipes intended for a Frankish ruler.
Archaeologists in France have uncovered an early medieval palace complex near Dijon, featuring a large church, stone buildings and Roman-style heating.
A major DNA study of 7,700 early medieval burials reveals new insights into migration, family life, disease and cultural identity across Europe.
Kelly DeVries tells the remarkable story of Swegen Godwinson, whose murder, scandals and exile left his younger brother Harold to face William the Conqueror at Hastings.
Read 10 open-access medieval studies articles published in August 2026, covering Viking trade, medieval floods, political power, religion and more.
Ten medieval Korean paintings depicting the Kings of Hell are reunited for the first time in over 60 years at the Cleveland Museum of Art.
Archaeologists in Germany have uncovered new remains of a medieval bishop’s palace, a rare 14th-century water system and sophisticated monastery buildings.
Call for papers for the 9th Symposium on Late Antique and Medieval Studies, taking place online in November 2026. Submissions close 9 November.
A thousand years ago, merchants from medieval Italy were bringing expensive silks, spices and other luxury goods home from the wealthy cities of…
A new exhibition in Paris reveals the real Nicolas Flamel, uncovering his medieval wealth and how he became a legendary alchemist.
In one of his key works, the late historian Chris Wickham explains how medieval economies worked and the roles of peasants, markets and feudalism.
The 13th-century mystic Rumi had a profound influence on Sufism, the mystical tradition of Islam. This book explores the religious community that emerged from his teachings and examines the role his followers played in the religious life of Ottoman Anatolia.
Discover the dirty business of medieval leather-making, from tanning hides with urine and dung to the pollution caused by tanneries in medieval towns.
Why did King John lose his subjects’ loyalty? His troubled reign brought Magna Carta, baronial rebellion and a foreign invasion that threatened his dynasty.
Chris Wickham, one of the most influential historians of medieval Europe, has passed away. His research transformed how scholars understand the transition from the Roman Empire to the Middle Ages, while his books introduced generations of readers to the political, social and economic history of medieval Europe.
Archaeologists in Kazakhstan have uncovered a sixth- to seventh-century fortified settlement, revealing ancient walls, pottery and a rare bird figurine.
Dr Steve Tibble takes us on a riotous tour of the Hospitallers who went rogue in the Holy Land…interspersed with hilarious reminisces of…
A conversation with Derek Krueger on homoerotic language and imagery in the works of the eleventh-century writer Symeon the New Theologian. These passages are unusual enough that earlier editors and scholars were made uncomfortable about them. We discuss their devotional context but also the broader context of homoeroticism and homophobia in the monastic world of that time.
How did medieval bishops raise armies for war? David Bachrach reveals how military contracts helped them secure the troops their kings demanded.
A new study examines how the Khmer Empire under Jayavarman VII created a remarkable network of 102 hospitals offering free healthcare across its territories.
Starting October 10th: Explore the fascinating occurrences of demonic possession and exorcism in medieval Christian Europe through vivid accounts of how medieval people and communities experienced and understood evil, illness, social cohesion, and the supernatural.
Few organisations in history have achieved as much fame, or infamy, as the Knights Templar. This book introduces you to their story, from their founding during the Crusades to their dramatic downfall.
In 1318, Joan of Leeds faked her death and fled her convent. Uncover the scandal, her daring escape and the unanswered questions about her fate.
Scientists investigate medieval remains attributed to Saint Theobald of Provins, using radiocarbon dating and facial reconstruction.
What did people eat in the early Middle Ages? Or, more precisely, what were they advised to eat? This sixth-century text, presented here in an edited translation, offers dietary advice and recipes intended for a Frankish ruler.
A conversation with Derek Krueger on homoerotic language and imagery in the works of the eleventh-century writer Symeon the New Theologian. These passages are unusual enough that earlier editors and scholars were made uncomfortable about them. We discuss their devotional context but also the broader context of homoeroticism and homophobia in the monastic world of that time.
This episode of Bow & Blade was recorded live at the 2026 International Medieval Congress at the University of Leeds. Kelly and Michael answer questions including was Agincourt the most decisive battle of the period, what battle do they find most useful to teach, and who was the most effective general of the Middle Ages?
Florence and its allies faced the forces of Arezzo in one of the most important battles of medieval Tuscany. In this episode of Bow & Blade, Michael and Kelly discuss the Battle of Campaldino and the fighting that brought Dante Alighieri onto the battlefield.
A conversation with Naomi Pitamber about the art and architecture of the empire of Nicaea (Nikaia), the Roman state that emerged in Asia Minor after the disaster of 1204.
King Richard III faces Henry Tudor in one of the decisive battles of the Wars of the Roses. In this episode of Bow & Blade, Michael and Kelly discuss the Battle of Bosworth and how the identification of its battlefield has offered new insights into how the fighting unfolded.
As the Hundred Years’ War entered its final chapter, England and France fought for control of Normandy. In this episode of Bow & Blade, Michael and Kelly examine the road to the Battle of Formigny and its decisive impact on the war.