DNA Reveals How Medieval Voyagers Settled Hawaii
A new DNA study reveals how medieval Polynesian voyagers settled Hawaii and Easter Island, uncovering genetic links across 7,000 kilometres of ocean.
Medieval Teeth Reveal Toxic Legacy of Lead Mining in England
Medieval teeth reveal how children in England’s Peak District were exposed to toxic lead pollution as early as the seventh century, a new study finds.
Demons, Djinns, and Devils of the Medieval Islamic World
Throughout the medieval world there was a strong belief in supernatural beings. If you lived in the Middle East, they would be called djinn, demons or devils. If you dare want to know more about these monsters, read on!
The Deeds of King Arthur in a Medieval Dante Commentary
Read a translation of a medieval Italian account of King Arthur, from his conquests and the Round Table to Mordred’s betrayal and their final battle.
Did Botticelli’s Venus Die from a Brain Tumour? New Study Offers Evidence
New research suggests that Simonetta Vespucci, the inspiration for Botticelli’s Venus, may have died from a pituitary tumour rather than tuberculosis.
Who Was the Medieval Executioner?
Who carried out executions in the Middle Ages? Lorris Chevalier explores how medieval executioners emerged as professionals and how they were portrayed in French literature.
7 Things You Might Not Know About Medieval Algeria
Explore seven fascinating facts about medieval Algeria, from Fibonacci and Ibn Khaldun to powerful dynasties, historic cities and Islamic architecture.
A Date, Two Parents, and a Gift: The Story Behind the World’s Oldest Dated Printed Book
The Diamond Sutra, printed in China in 868, is the world’s oldest surviving complete dated printed book. Its dedication reveals a personal story of family and Buddhist generosity.
Medieval Castles and Churches in England Receive New Conservation Funding
Medieval castles and churches across England, including Hastings Castle and Dover Castle, will benefit from new government conservation funding.
Why Ibn Khaldun Still Matters 600 Years Later
A new open-access book explores why Ibn Khaldun’s medieval ideas about the rise and fall of civilizations still matter more than 600 years later.
How Beer Came to Medieval England
Dutch immigrants brought hopped beer to medieval England in the 14th century, gradually transforming English brewing and drinking habits.
Archaeologists Uncover Early Medieval Palace Complex in France
Archaeologists in France have uncovered an early medieval palace complex near Dijon, featuring a large church, stone buildings and Roman-style heating.
How DNA Is Rewriting the History of Early Medieval Europe
A major DNA study of 7,700 early medieval burials reveals new insights into migration, family life, disease and cultural identity across Europe.
The Man Who Should Have Lost the Battle of Hastings
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.
10 Open-Access Medieval Studies Articles Published in August 2026
Read 10 open-access medieval studies articles published in August 2026, covering Viking trade, medieval floods, political power, religion and more.
Medieval Korean Visions of Hell Reunited in Museum Exhibition
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 Uncover Medieval Bishop’s Palace and Rare Water System in Germany
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: 9th Symposium on Late Antique and Medieval Studies
Call for papers for the 9th Symposium on Late Antique and Medieval Studies, taking place online in November 2026. Submissions close 9 November.
How Human Trafficking Fuelled Medieval Trade
A thousand years ago, merchants from medieval Italy were bringing expensive silks, spices and other luxury goods home from the wealthy cities of…
Who Was the Real Nicolas Flamel? New Medieval Exhibition Opens in Paris
A new exhibition in Paris reveals the real Nicolas Flamel, uncovering his medieval wealth and how he became a legendary alchemist.
How Did the Medieval Economy Really Work? Chris Wickham Explains
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 Dirty Business of Making Leather in the Middle Ages
Discover the dirty business of medieval leather-making, from tanning hides with urine and dung to the pollution caused by tanneries in medieval towns.
Chris Wickham, Leading Historian of Medieval Europe, Passes Away
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 Uncover Medieval Fortified Settlement in Kazakhstan
Archaeologists in Kazakhstan have uncovered a sixth- to seventh-century fortified settlement, revealing ancient walls, pottery and a rare bird figurine.