Image: A forgotten foundation near a hiking trail turned out to be an old shack, roughly 20 square metres in size. It had once provided travellers with shelter from the elements, a place to eat, relax, and perhaps sleep before continuing their journey across the mountains. (Photo: Marianne Vedeler) By Smartenyclopedia

By José Carlos Palma* For over seven centuries, the death of Infante Fadrique de Castilla has remained shrouded in mystery, a perplexing puzzle with no clear answers. Perhaps one day a surprising document or new evidence will shed light on this enigma, but for now, it continues to baffle historians

By José Carlos Palma* Louis XI, King of France from 1461 to 1483, remains one of the most enigmatic and astute figures in medieval history. His reign was marked by a shrewd deployment of espionage and political maneuvering, which enabled him to consolidate his power and influence across Europe. Louis

By José Carlos Palma* Espionage, an ancient craft essential to the covert world of intelligence, flourished during the Middle Ages in Europe, showcasing sophisticated methods that prefigured modern spycraft. Among the most remarkable practitioners of medieval espionage was King Louis XI of France, whose innovative intelligence system set a precedent

Image: Louis XI of France By José Carlos Palma* Espionage, often dubbed one of the “oldest professions in the world,” has a rich history that extends far beyond modern times. While its contemporary applications are well-known, the roots of espionage can be traced back to the Middle Ages, a period

By Smartencyclopedia Staff A rare historical artifact, known as a “pilgrim’s badge,” dating back to the Middle Ages, has recently been discovered in Wólka Nieliska, Poland, with the assistance of a metal detector. This object has sparked significant interest among scholars as it is believed to have served as a

By José Carlos Palma* The history of Britain is a tapestry woven with threads of conquest, decline, and resurgence. Among the most significant chapters in this narrative is the departure of the Romans from Britain—a pivotal moment that ushered in the post-Roman era. This article delves deep into the multifaceted

By José Carlos Palma* The fall of the mighty Roman Empire is a pivotal chapter in world history, and its echoes reverberated far beyond the heart of Rome itself. One of the most intriguing and enigmatic periods that followed was the post-Roman era in Britain. A land that once thrived

By José Carlos Palma* The external projection of Portugal, like other kingdoms, relied on diplomatic maneuvers supported by a complex and effective espionage network. This practice was seen as beneficial for diplomacy, as it allowed ambassadors to extract maximum advantage from their activities. The efficiency of this network, with its

By Smartencyclopedia The Classical World, encompassing the civilizations of ancient Greece and Rome, experienced a gradual decline and transformation over several centuries, marked by significant events and transitions. One pivotal event that is often regarded as the end of the Classical World is the fall of the Western Roman Empire