

In fact, religion was so much a part of daily life that people even said a certain number of prayers to decide how long to cook an egg!Ĭhristian belief was so widespread during this time that historians sometimes call the Middle Ages the “Age of Faith.” People looked to the Church to explain world events. It was a daily presence from birth to death. Farmers sold their produce in the square, and markets, festivals, and fairs were held there, as well.Ĭlick to read captionDuring the Middle Ages, the Church provided education for some and it helped the poor and sick. Merchants had shops around the square in front of the church. Town meetings, plays, and concerts were also held in churches. Religious services were held several times a day. The church building was the center of community activity. Church bells rang out the hours, called people to worship, and warned of danger.

Almost every community had a church building. The Church was the center of life in medieval western Europe.
