The custom of all-night drinking is not just a modern-day phenomenon. Experts indicate that people in London during the 12th century consumed several liters of beer daily, even starting from breakfast.
Artifacts displayed at the Museum of London, including ancient Toby jugs, depict portly men with beer bellies. Seven hundred years ago, London had over 1,300 pubs, each serving around 50 residents of the city.
John Clark, Director of the Medieval London exhibition, stated: “Most people, including children, drank barley beer that was un-hopped. They even consumed beer at breakfast, averaging up to 4.5 liters daily. With a price of one penny per gallon (4.5 liters), only the poorest would drink water.”
However, he noted that this beer was much lighter than what people drink today.
Tom Knox, Director of Nethergate Brewery, remarked: “Beer was the perfect beverage at that time because water and milk were often contaminated, while tea and coffee were unknown in England.”
The boiling and fermentation stages in the brewing process eliminated most bacteria.
By the 14th century, beer brewed with hops became popular in London, gradually replacing traditional beer. Imported wine also gained popularity during this period, catering to the wealthier classes.
However, Clark mentioned that medieval drinkers did not move from tavern to tavern due to curfews at night. Instead, they would stay in one pub and drink heavily in a private room.
These historical beer vessels, including ceramic mugs and rare enameled wine glasses, will be showcased at the Barbican Museum on November 25.
M.T. (according to BBC)
