After the Romans

After the fall of the Roman Empire, Europe endures a turbulent 1000-year period called the medieval era, beginning around 500 AD. Without the unifying presence of Roman armies, settlements are vulnerable to intruders.

The Roman road system, a model for the world, has fallen into disuse, as there is no protection from marauders and thieves. The Italians are beginning to revive trade in the Mediterranean, but their sea routes are fairly limited.

Meanwhile, Arab traders in the Middle East are beginning to establish contacts in India and China, which offer luxury items not available in Europe. China's population and wealth far surpass those of Europe.
Viking raids, 800s AD

  Rampage from the North
Things begin changing during the 800s, when the Vikings sweep down from Norway and Sweden. At first, they concentrate on what they can carry away during swift raids along the coast, and up rivers to cities like Paris (lower left). Soon, however, isolated raids merge into a more organized campaign of conquest. Everyone now has to brace against possible Viking attacks.

Norse trade routes, 1000 AD map

  Norse Trade Routes
No one is really safe from Viking attacks. The success of their raids encourages attackers from Denmark as well. Eventually, all invaders from the north are lumped together simply as 'Norsemen,' meaning men from the North. This is later shortened to 'Norman.' It isn't long, however, before the Normans turn from vandalism to business, establishing a robust and far-flung trading network, at a time when virtually all other trade has vanished.


Medieval manors and towns, 1000 AD map

  Manors and Towns
This is Europe during the early medieval era, when people are living amid the ruins of the old Roman Empire. Small village settlements have been replaced by the medieval manor, a kind of self-contained estate which functions like an entire miniature town. The Lord lives in the great manor house, while peasants are given simple housing nearby in return for working the surrounding land. The GREEN dots on the map mark the location of scattered towns. YELLOW circles indicate the handful of early cities.