Contemporary History

Middle Ages · History

Pope Gregory VII (Hildebrand of Soana) - church reformer, power politician, saint

Between the tiara and the imperial crown: Pope Gregory VII fought for an independent Church – and in doing so became embroiled in one of the greatest power struggles of the Middle Ages.

7 July 202613 min

Middle Ages · History

Crusades in the Middle Ages: overview, development, course, life and everyday life

From Byzantium to the Holy Land: the Crusades shaped two centuries – religiously, politically and economically. A look at the background, the course of events and people’s everyday lives.

18 June 202614 min

Middle Ages · History

The Hundred Years’ War (1337-1453) - causes, phases and consequences

The Hundred Years' War had a lasting impact on Europe. Find out what caused it, how it unfolded, and what consequences it had for France and England.

13 June 202613 min

Middle Ages · History

Mathilde von Quedlinburg - biography, history and facts about the Ottonian ruler

Mathilde of Quedlinburg ruled as abbess of an important convent, thereby wielding political power. Who was this woman from the Ottonian period really?

11 June 20268 min

Middle Ages · History

From the life of Richard the Lionheart

Crusades, captivity and a ransom that shook a kingdom to its core – the life of Richard I is full of contradictions. We take a look behind the myth.

19 May 202619 min

Middle Ages · History

The Saga of the Nibelungs: German heroes, myths and history

Heroism, betrayal and revenge: the Nibelungen saga blends history with myth. Discover how this tale came into being and continues to shape German culture to this day.

23 April 20269 min

Middle Ages · History

Hildegard of Bingen

Hildegard von Bingen: mystic, herbalist and church figure – why this medieval figure could be a fascinating source of inspiration for your next LARP character.

21 April 202617 min

Middle Ages · History

The plague in the Middle Ages: causes and effects of the Black Death

How did the plague of the 14th century change Europe forever? The causes, spread and consequences of the Black Death – a look back at one of history’s darkest periods.

14 April 202610 min

Middle Ages · History

The Magna Carta

How King John, having lost his lands, was forced to sign the Magna Carta in 1215 – and in doing so unwittingly laid the foundations for modern civil liberties.

31 March 202615 min

Middle Ages · History

The Renaissance: origins, characteristics and significance

From art to science: the Renaissance brought about lasting change in Europe. What defines this era – and why it remains relevant to LARP and re-enactment to this day.

23 March 202616 min