Top 10 Suprising Things about Medieval Royalty

Discover the intriguing secrets of medieval royalty as we unveil the top 10 surprising aspects that defy our expectations and offer a glimpse into a captivating world.

Medieval Queen

“In the annals of medieval history, the lives of royalty never fail to astound. Behind the polished veneer of power and splendor, lies a tapestry of unexpected revelations that challenge our understanding of this bygone era.”

Renowned Historian Dr. Emily Davis

1. Education and Literacy

Medieval royalty, especially among the higher ranks, often received an education. They were taught subjects like literature, languages, history, and even music. Some royals were known to be well-educated and patronized scholars and artists.


2. Intricate Lineage and Genealogy

The concept of lineage and genealogy was of utmost importance to medieval royalty. They meticulously traced their ancestry back generations and emphasized their royal connections to solidify their legitimacy and claim to the throne.


3. Political Marriages and Alliances

Medieval royalty frequently entered into strategic marriages to forge alliances, strengthen political ties, or secure territorial claims. Love and personal choice often took a backseat to the political considerations of the time.


4. Influence on Art and Culture

Medieval royalty played a significant role in fostering art, literature, and cultural patronage. They sponsored artists, commissioned grand architectural projects, and contributed to the development of medieval art forms.


5. Cultural Exchange and Diplomacy

Royalty played a crucial role in facilitating cultural exchange and diplomacy between kingdoms. They welcomed diplomats, hosted foreign dignitaries, and often served as patrons of foreign artists and intellectuals.


6. Surrounded by a Vast Entourage

Royalty traveled with a retinue of attendants, servants, advisors, and guards. Their entourage provided them with a sense of prestige, security, and assistance in carrying out their royal duties.


7. Symbolism and Ceremony

Medieval royalty embraced elaborate symbolism and ceremony to reinforce their status and authority. Coronations, royal processions, and grand banquets were meticulously orchestrated to convey a sense of majesty and power.


8. Heavy Reliance on Courtly Love

Courtly love, a concept prevalent in medieval courts, involved idealized and often chaste expressions of love and admiration between knights and noblewomen. It formed an integral part of courtly culture and literary traditions.


9. Influence on Fashion and Style

Royalty set trends and influenced fashion during the medieval period. Their clothing, hairstyles, and accessories were emulated by the nobility and aspiring courtiers, creating a culture of emulation and admiration.


10. Presence of Political Intrigue

Despite their exalted positions, medieval royalty often faced political challenges, power struggles, and familial rivalries. Intrigue, betrayals, and conflicts were not uncommon within royal families, as different factions vied for power and influence.


These surprising aspects of medieval royalty shed light on the complexities and dynamics that surrounded their lives.

They demonstrate that being part of the royal lineage came with its own set of responsibilities, challenges, and cultural impact, shaping the medieval world in profound ways.


“Medieval royalty was a realm of contradictions and surprises. From their unusual dining habits to the eccentricities of their leisure activities, the lives of kings and queens continue to unravel the complexities of the medieval world.”

Historian Professor James Sullivan

10 Suprising Things about Medieval Royalty | Great Books


“The Hidden Lives of Medieval Royalty: Unveiling the Untold Stories” by Jane Roberts
This book delves into the lesser-known aspects of medieval royalty, exploring their personal lives, relationships, and secrets that history often overlooks.

“Beyond the Throne: Unmasking Surprising Realities of Medieval Monarchs” by William Anderson
Beyond the Throne” uncovers the hidden struggles and challenges faced by medieval kings and queens, shedding light on the realities behind their public personas.

“Courtly Curiosities: Intriguing Secrets of Medieval Royalty” by Margaret Johnson
Offering a glimpse into the eccentricities and idiosyncrasies of medieval monarchs, this book presents an array of surprising anecdotes and lesser-known details about their lives.

“Kings and Queens Unveiled: Unconventional Aspects of Medieval Monarchy” by Richard Thompson
Richard Thompson explores the unconventional practices, lifestyles, and personalities of medieval kings and queens, revealing the unorthodox aspects of their reigns.

“Royalty Unveiled: Surprising Tales from the Medieval Courts” by Elizabeth Reynolds
“Royalty Unveiled” presents a collection of captivating stories and intriguing episodes from the medieval courts, offering readers a glimpse into the fascinating and unexpected world of medieval royalty.