Medieval Life Recreated in oviedo, Spain
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Oviedo, spain — May 15, 2024 — A vibrant ancient recreation in Oviedo, Spain, offered a captivating glimpse into medieval life. Attendees witnessed demonstrations and talks on civilian and military life in the Kingdom of Asturias. This immersive event explored various facets of the era, including medicine, fashion, and the influence of Andalusian culture. Experts and enthusiasts shared insights, providing a rich educational experience. For a deeper dive into this interesting period, continue reading.
Step Back in Time: Medieval Life Recreated in Spain
A living history encampment in Oviedo, Spain, transports visitors to the early Middle Ages, showcasing medicine, fashion, and military life in the Kingdom of Asturias.
A Glimpse into 9th-Century Life
the grounds of Monte Naranco in Oviedo recently hosted a unique past recreation, offering a vivid portrayal of civilian and military life in the Kingdom of Asturias during the early Middle Ages.
Did You Know?
The Kingdom of Asturias was one of the first christian kingdoms to emerge after the Islamic conquest of the Iberian Peninsula in the 8th century.
The event featured a living museum, complete with demonstrations and talks covering various aspects of the era.
Medieval Medicine: Surprisingly Advanced?
Visitors to the encampment were given a look at the medical practices of the time.
- Surgical Tools: Forceps, scalpels, scissors, and tooth-pulling pincers were among the instruments on display.
- Similarities to Today: According to one member of the Campamento Altomedieval, these tools were
not very different from the current ones.
One of the presenters explained to the children that medicine was quite advanced and mortality was lower than one might think.
Fashion and Textiles of the Era
The historical recreation also delved into the clothing and textiles used in the 9th century.
When asked What type of fabrics would they use in the 9th century?
one young girl correctly answered: Linen, silk, cotton, wool…
An expert at the event clarified that clothing in medieval Asturias was similar to that of the rest of christian Europe, especially the Carolingian Empire.
He added, The use of cotton among Christians came late. Silk became more accessible. They frequently enough wore an inner layer of linen. The most social distinction was provided by the intense colors.
did You Know?
Dyes played a crucial role in indicating social status. Vibrant and expensive dyes were a sign of wealth and nobility.
The Andalusian influence
A new addition to this year’s event was the inclusion of the Andalusian world, showcasing the influence of Islamic culture on the region.
The presenter noted that among other things, the cotton brought from Egypt, which was a luxury material, distinguished the Andalusians in their way of dressing.
He also mentioned that among the upper classes, fashions from Damascus are imported. Andalusian fashion is quite unisex, with the exception of veils. Both men and women wear pants.
More Than Just a Recreation
Clara García, a manager at the Prerromanic Interpretation Center, noted that the novelty of this edition has been the inclusion of the Andalusian world.
Beyond the historical displays, visitors also explored nearby historical sites such as Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo.
FAQ: medieval Life in Asturias
- What surgical tools did medieval doctors use?
- Scalpels, scissors, forceps, and tooth-pulling pincers were common.
- What fabrics were used in 9th-century Asturias?
- Linen, wool, and silk were common. Cotton was a later addition.
- What distinguished Andalusian fashion?
- Cotton from Egypt, unisex styles, and the import of fashions from damascus.
