Medieval Monday: Travel

Allison D. Reid

travelTravel in medieval times was a challenge to say the least. In and between rural areas, there might not be more than a narrow, beaten earth path. Overly wet or snowy weather could make such roads impassable for long stretches of time. Bandits, weather, and wild animals all added to the hazards of the road. Though main trade routes were larger and better maintained (better guarded as well) they were far from comfortable. Wagon tires were primitive, made from flexible sapling wood, and transporting anything heavy was fraught with difficulties. When possible, pack animals were used by merchants who needed to get their goods from village to village. Travel by sea was no safer than travel by foot or beast, and the sea claimed many a historic figure, including the son of King Henry I.

heraldic-regaliaHowever, history shows that in spite of the dangers and discomfort of travel, it remained…

View original post 346 more words


4 thoughts on “Medieval Monday: Travel

  1. Very interesting. Of course, many people never travelled anywhere, even outside of their own parish. Some of my neighbours have not travelled either, despite advances in public transport. I know at least two people who have never even been to Norwich!
    And as for colours denoting origins and allegiances, we still have those today. They are called football shirts…
    Best wishes, Pete.

    Liked by 1 person

Leave a comment