As Férias na Idade Média!

 During the medieval period, the lives of peasants were deeply shaped by the agricultural calendar and the influence of the Church. The Church played a crucial role in providing peasants with numerous holidays, many of which were linked to religious festivals and saints' days. These holidays were not merely for rest but served as a way to maintain social order and prevent unrest. By mandating frequent breaks, the Church sought to avoid potential revolts and keep the working population content. Major religious celebrations like Christmas, Easter, and various saints' feast days were times when peasants could rest from their labor. Additionally, local events such as weddings, births, and funerals also provided opportunities for relaxation and communal gatherings.

Despite the grueling nature of their work, which included tasks like plowing, harvesting, and tending to their households, peasants could expect to have anywhere from eight weeks to half a year off from their duties. This time away from the fields was essential for their physical and mental well-being, allowing them to recuperate from the strenuous work and engage in social activities. The Church’s role in enforcing these holidays helped ensure that peasants had a balanced existence, alternating between intense labor and necessary rest. This structure of regular holidays provided a rhythm to the peasants' lives, contributing to the overall stability of medieval society and fostering a predictable pattern that allowed for both productivity and social cohesion.