The Middle Ages are still considered a dark, backward period in history, but it is in that era that we find the roots of our society today, of democracy, of capitalism. In many respects, the Middle Ages in the southern Low Countries were more modern than the widely acclaimed Renaissance. In this book, young researchers sweep you off on a journey through these fascinating 'golden times' of dynamic cities, independent women, international networks of trade and commerce, organized workers and world-class artists. The economic history of the Middle Ages is described from the innovative perspective of various groups in society and illustrated with countless artworks that have never been displayed before.