Where the Middle Ages Begin
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!
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.
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.
New research suggests young adults aged 15 to 24 were particularly vulnerable during the Black Death, based on medieval burials in Britain.
Starting October 8th: Explore 700 years of religious tradition in medieval Europe including beliefs, heresies, and reforms.
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?
Whether you were a military commander in medieval England or Japan, you would have faced many of the same challenges of organisation, logistics, and tactics. This book takes a comparative approach to medieval warfare, examining how armies fought and operated across different parts of the medieval world.
Archaeologists in Poland have uncovered possible medieval fortifications surrounding a 15th-century windmill, along with stone cannonballs.
Archaeologists in Russia have uncovered a remarkable medieval silver hoard containing rare Swedish coins, jewellery and possible Norse imagery.
From deadly banquets to wedding betrayals, discover 15 medieval massacres and murders that recall the infamous Red Wedding.
Explore the flavours of medieval food, from exotic spices and elaborate dishes to the unusual ingredients that delighted diners in the Middle Ages.
Across the medieval world we can find various writings aimed at giving advice and wisdom. Here is some poetic wisdom from the ninth-century Middle East.
Renovation work at Żupny Castle in Poland has uncovered stone fortifications believed to date from the 14th century.
Medieval China is where printing was first invented. But what kinds of works were printed there? This book focuses on the 10th to 12th centuries, revealing how the state made use of this technology and how the spread of the printed word transformed Chinese culture.
Discover the sports and games enjoyed by medieval Londoners, from jousting and wrestling to ball games, cockfighting and ice skating.
Six Viking gold arm-rings weighing more than 750 grams have been discovered in Denmark, revealing new evidence of wealth and power in the tenth century.
This extensive collection of translated texts explores the emperors of Byzantium from the fourth to the fifteenth centuries. Drawing on chronicles, letters and other historical sources, it offers a sweeping tour of Byzantine politics across more than a thousand years.
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.