An example of the beauty of the Middle Ages, gothic architecture gave the era towering cathedrals, bronze bells and stained glass.
Read MoreGothic Architecture: The Pinnacle of Medieval Civilization?
The third estate was the economic engine of the Middle Ages: most of its members worked the land, but through guilds, some grew into a burgeoning 'burgher' class.
Read MoreThe Three Estates (3): The ‘Laboratores’ – Working hard, or hardly working?
The 'bellatores', or "those who fight", were the second estate of medieval society. Through sheer military power, they imposed their will on the wider population.
Read MoreThe Three Estates (2): The ‘Bellatores’ – Might Makes Right
European medieval society knew three estates. The clergy, or the 'oratores', were the first. Its members focused on spiritual matters, but could be found advising worldly lords as well.
Read MoreThe Three Estates (1): The ‘Oratores’ – Faith, Law & Order
What's more medieval than a castle? The era's most distinctive icon is firmly imprinted in our modern minds, but castles actually went through many interesting innovations!
Read MoreStones & Crowns: The Medieval Reporter’s Guide to Castles!
Marco Polo went to the edge of the medieval world. His tale is rather sketchy at times, but his claim that he served the Mongol khan in the East for years is probably true.
Read MoreThe Myth and the Merchant: Following The Fascinating Footsteps of Marco Polo’s Travels
The Silk Road connected China and Europe throughout the Middle Ages. Both middlemen merchants and expansive emperors grew rich by controlling this trade route.
Read MoreThe World On A String: Europeans on the Silk Road
Money makes the world go around. But initially, medieval economies relied as much on barter as on coinage. Smart bankers then turned the system around in their favor.
Read MoreFrom Benches to Empires: The Rise of Banking
The limited space within a medieval city's walls led to an ever-intensifying search for the ideal residential unit. Both the "Viking" longhouse and the typical townhouse proved popular.
Read MoreHome Sweet Home: A Tale of Medieval Urban Housing
