What is the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474?

The Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474, also known as the Cracovian Calendar, is a single-sheet broadside astronomical wall calendar created for the year 1474. It holds the distinction of being Poland's oldest known printed item. Such calendars were important tools in the 15th century, providing a mix of celestial, religious, and practical information.

What is the primary historical significance of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474?

The primary historical significance of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 is its status as Poland's oldest known print. Its existence marks a key moment in the introduction and spread of printing technology within the region.

What alternative name is used for the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474?

The Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 is also referred to by the name Calendarium cracoviense, which translates to Cracovian Calendar. This alternative title highlights its origin and function.

When and where was the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 published?

The Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 was published in the city of Kraków in the year 1473. This places its creation just prior to the year for which it was intended.

Who printed the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474?

The Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 was printed by Kasper Straube. Straube was an itinerant printer from Bavaria who worked in Kraków between 1473 and 1476, contributing to the early printing efforts in the city.

What is suggested about the authorship of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474?

It has been suggested that the astronomer Petrus Gaszowiec may have authored the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474. Gaszowiec was known for his work in astronomy during that period.

What types of information does the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 contain?

The Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 contains Church holidays and astronomical data, including planetary oppositions and conjunctions. It also provides medical advice, specifically listing the best days for bloodletting based on the patient's age and illness.

What specific astronomical data is mentioned as being included in the Almanac?

The Almanac includes astronomical data concerning the positions and relationships of planets. Specifically, it lists planetary oppositions, where a planet is opposite the Sun in the sky, and conjunctions, where celestial bodies appear close together.

What kind of medical advice is provided in the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474?

The Almanac provides medical advice related to bloodletting, a common practice at the time. It indicates the most suitable days for this procedure, considering the patient's age and the specific illness they were experiencing. This integration of medical guidance was typical for almanacs of the era.

In what language is the text of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 written?

The text of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 is written in Latin. Latin was the standard language for scholarly, religious, and official documents across Europe during the late medieval and Renaissance periods.

What was the state of printing technology around the time the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 was published?

Around 1473, when the Almanach was published, the technology of printing with movable type was still relatively new, having existed for only about two decades. This innovation was beginning to revolutionize the dissemination of information across Europe.

Who were the primary practitioners of movable type printing in the 1470s?

In the 1470s, the practice of printing with movable type was almost exclusively carried out by Germans. They were instrumental in spreading this technology throughout the continent.

How did printing technology spread across Europe in the 1470s?

German printers played a key role in the widespread dissemination of printing technology across Europe during the 1470s. The technology appeared early in the decade in France and the Netherlands, and later, after 1473, in England and Spain.

When did printing technology first appear in France and the Netherlands?

Printing technology began to appear in France and the Netherlands early in the 1470s. This marked an important phase in the geographical expansion of the printing press from its German origins.

When was printing technology introduced to England and Spain?

Printing technology was introduced to England and Spain after the year 1473. This timing indicates a slightly later adoption of the printing press in these regions compared to France and the Netherlands during the 1470s.

How many copies of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 are known to exist today?

Only one copy of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 is known to have survived to the present day. This scarcity makes the existing copy exceptionally valuable from a historical and cultural perspective.

What are the physical dimensions of the surviving copy of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474?

The sole surviving copy of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 measures 37 centimeters in height and 26.2 centimeters in width. These dimensions specify the size of this rare historical document.

Where is the only known surviving copy of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 located?

The single surviving copy of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 is housed in the collections of the Jagiellonian University. This prestigious university library serves as the repository for this significant piece of Polish printing history.

Describe the surviving copy of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 based on the provided text.

The sole surviving copy of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 is a physical artifact measuring 37 cm by 26.2 cm. It is preserved within the collections of the Jagiellonian University, representing the oldest known print from Poland.

What related historical topics are mentioned in the article's 'See also' section?

The 'See also' section mentions two related topics: Hortulus Animae, likely another historical printed work, and the History of printing in Poland. These entries provide context and suggest further areas of study related to early printing in the region.

What is the title and publisher of the book cited as a source regarding the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474?

One of the cited sources is a book titled Trade and Urban Development in Poland: An Economic Geography of Cracow, from Its Origins to 1795. This book was published by Cambridge University Press.

What is the ISBN for the book Trade and Urban Development in Poland: An Economic Geography of Cracow, from Its Origins to 1795?

The ISBN for the book Trade and Urban Development in Poland: An Economic Geography of Cracow, from Its Origins to 1795 is 9780521024389. This number uniquely identifies the publication.

What is the subject of the online source referenced in the article's citations?

The online source referenced in the article's citations discusses an astrological-medical calendar for the year 1474, originating from a publication called Urania in July 1976. This source supports the information about the Almanac's content and potential authorship.

What does the term 'incunable' refer to in relation to the Almanach cracoviense?

The term 'incunable' refers to books printed in Europe before January 1, 1501. Since the Almanach cracoviense was printed in 1473, it qualifies as an incunable, signifying its origin in the very early period of European printing.

What does the term 'broadside' signify about the format of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474?

The term 'broadside' indicates that the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 was printed on a single sheet of paper. This format was common for distributing single-page documents like calendars, proclamations, or news sheets in the early days of printing.

What is the literal translation of the title Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474?

The title Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 translates from Latin to English as Cracovian Almanac for the Year 1474. This title clearly states its origin city and the specific year it pertains to.

What is the literal translation of the alternative title Calendarium cracoviense?

The title Calendarium cracoviense translates from Latin to English as Cracovian Calendar. This is an alternative name for the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474.

What was Kasper Straube's occupation and period of activity in Kraków?

Kasper Straube was a printer, specifically described as an itinerant Bavarian printer, who was active in Kraków between the years 1473 and 1476. His work in the city included printing the Almanach cracoviense.

What specific types of Church holidays might have been listed in the Almanac?

While the text broadly mentions Church holidays, these would typically have included major feast days, saints' days, and significant liturgical events relevant to the Catholic Church calendar of 1474. Such information was crucial for religious observance and daily life planning.

What does the inclusion of planetary oppositions and conjunctions suggest about the Almanac's purpose?

The inclusion of planetary oppositions and conjunctions suggests that the Almanac served purposes beyond simple timekeeping, incorporating astronomical or potentially astrological information. These celestial events were often considered significant in medieval and Renaissance societies.

Why was the technology of movable type printing significant in the 15th century?

The technology of movable type printing was significant because it enabled the mass production of texts far more efficiently than manual copying. This innovation dramatically increased the availability of written materials, contributing to the spread of knowledge and literacy.

What does the description 'itinerant Bavarian printer' imply about Kasper Straube?

The description 'itinerant Bavarian printer' implies that Kasper Straube traveled from his home region of Bavaria to work in different locations, such as Kraków. This mobility was characteristic of skilled artisans who moved to find work during that period.

What does the reference to the Jagiellonian University signify about the Almanac's current status?

The reference to the Jagiellonian University signifies that the sole surviving copy of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 is preserved and maintained by a major academic institution. This indicates its importance as a historical artifact worthy of scholarly collection and study.

What might be the reason for the Almanach cracoviense being printed as a broadside?

Printing the Almanach cracoviense as a broadside, or a single sheet, was likely a practical choice for a calendar intended for wall display or easy reference. This format facilitated quick production and distribution of essential yearly information.

How does the Almanach cracoviense relate to the broader history of printing in Poland?

The Almanach cracoviense is fundamentally important to the history of printing in Poland as it represents the oldest known printed item from the country. Its existence signifies the early establishment of printing technology within Poland.

What does the citation mentioning archive.org suggest about the accessibility of the source material?

The citation mentioning archive.org suggests that the book Trade and Urban Development in Poland is available digitally through the Internet Archive. This often means the content is publicly accessible, either due to being in the public domain or through limited trial access.

What does the term 'astronomical data' encompass in the context of a 15th-century almanac?

In a 15th-century almanac like the Almanach cracoviense, 'astronomical data' would typically include information on the movements and positions of celestial bodies, such as the sun, moon, and planets, including phenomena like oppositions and conjunctions. This data was used for various purposes, from timekeeping to astrological interpretation.

What does the use of Latin for the Almanac's text imply about its intended audience?

The use of Latin implies that the Almanach cracoviense was intended for an audience educated in the language, likely including clergy, scholars, and the literate elite of the time. Latin served as a lingua franca for intellectual and religious discourse across Europe.

What does the mention of 'planetary oppositions and conjunctions' imply about the Almanac's content beyond simple calendrical data?

The mention of specific celestial events like planetary oppositions and conjunctions implies that the Almanac contained information relevant to astronomy and possibly astrology. These configurations were often interpreted for their significance in understanding the world or predicting events.

What does the phrase 'Kraków's oldest known print' tell us about the city's early printing history?

The phrase 'Kraków's oldest known print' indicates that the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 is the earliest documented printed item originating from Kraków. It serves as a foundational artifact in the history of printing within that specific city.

What does the term 'wall calendar' suggest about the format and intended use of the Almanach?

The term 'wall calendar' suggests that the Almanach cracoviense was designed to be displayed, likely on a wall, for easy viewing and reference throughout the year 1474. This format implies it was intended for households or institutions rather than for personal, portable use.

What does the inclusion of 'medical advice' in the Almanac imply about knowledge integration in the 15th century?

The inclusion of 'medical advice' regarding bloodletting implies that 15th-century almanacs often served as comprehensive resources, integrating practical information on health and medicine alongside astronomical and religious data. This reflects the interconnectedness of knowledge domains during that period.

What does the description 'single-sheet incunable' tell us about the physical nature and age of the Almanac?

The description 'single-sheet incunable' tells us that the Almanach cracoviense is a document printed on one side of a sheet of paper (a broadside) and that it was produced before the year 1501. This combination highlights both its format and its status as an artifact from the early era of printing.

What does the fact that Kasper Straube was an 'itinerant' printer suggest about the spread of printing skills?

The fact that Kasper Straube was an 'itinerant' printer suggests that printing skills were actively spread by individuals who traveled and established presses in various locations. This mobility was crucial for the rapid diffusion of printing technology across Europe in the late 15th century.

What is the significance of the Almanach cracoviense being a 'broadside'?

The significance of the Almanach cracoviense being a 'broadside' lies in its format as a single printed sheet. This format was economical for producing and distributing single pieces of information, making it suitable for widespread use or display as a calendar.

What does the article imply about the relationship between astronomy and medicine in the 15th century through the Almanac's content?

The article implies a connection between astronomy and medicine in the 15th century, as shown by the Almanac's inclusion of both astronomical data and medical advice on bloodletting. This suggests that celestial observations were considered relevant to health practices during that era.

What does the citation referencing 'Urania' and an archived webpage suggest about the source's reliability and accessibility?

The citation referencing 'Urania' and an archived webpage suggests that the information regarding Petrus Gaszowiec's potential authorship comes from a specific publication and is preserved online. While archived pages offer access, their reliability can depend on the original source and the archiving process.

What does the term 'movable type' refer to in the context of printing?

Movable type refers to a printing system using individual, reusable characters (letters, numbers, punctuation) that can be arranged to form text. This technology allowed for the efficient printing of multiple copies and was a fundamental innovation of the printing press.

What does the article suggest about the early adoption rate of printing technology in different parts of Europe?

The article suggests a varied adoption rate of printing technology across Europe in the 1470s. It appeared earliest in France and the Netherlands, followed by England and Spain after 1473, indicating a gradual but widespread diffusion initiated by German printers.

What is the primary function of an almanac, as exemplified by the Almanach cracoviense?

The primary function of an almanac, like the Almanach cracoviense, is to serve as a calendar providing daily, monthly, and yearly information. It typically includes astronomical data, religious observances, and practical advice, acting as an essential reference tool for the year.

Almanach Cracoviense Ad Annum 1474 Wiki: The Cracovian Almanac: Unveiling Poland's First Printed Legacy

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What is the Almanach Cracoviense?

A Calendar of Significance

The Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474, also known as the Calendarium cracoviense, stands as a singular artifact in the annals of Polish printing. It is a broadside astronomical wall calendar specifically designed for the year 1474. Its profound historical importance is cemented by its status as Poland's oldest known printed document.

An Incunable Masterpiece

This single-sheet publication is classified as an incunable, meaning it was printed during the infancy of the printing press era, before the year 1501. Its existence signifies the early adoption and dissemination of movable type technology within the Kingdom of Poland.

A Glimpse into Medieval Knowledge

Beyond its chronological function, the Almanach serves as a valuable historical source. It encapsulates the knowledge and practices prevalent in the late 15th century, offering insights into astronomical understanding, religious observances, and even rudimentary medical guidance.

The Printer and the Scholar

Kasper Straube: The Pioneer

The Almanach cracoviense was meticulously produced in Kraków in 1473 by Kasper Straube. Straube, an itinerant printer originally from Bavaria, was active in Kraków between 1473 and 1476. His presence and work mark a crucial moment in the introduction of advanced printing techniques to the region.

Attributed Authorship

While Straube was the printer, the intellectual authorship of the Almanach is often attributed to the astronomer Petrus Gaszowiec. This collaboration between a skilled craftsman and a learned scholar highlights the interdisciplinary nature of knowledge production during the period.

Contents and Purpose

Astronomical Data

Consistent with the practices of contemporary almanacs, the Almanach cracoviense provides essential astronomical information. This includes details on celestial events such as planetary oppositions and conjunctions, crucial for both scientific observation and astrological interpretation of the era.

Religious and Temporal Information

The calendar meticulously lists Church holidays and significant dates, reflecting the central role of religion in medieval life. This temporal framework guided the community's activities and observances throughout the year 1474.

Medical Guidance

A notable feature of the Almanach is its inclusion of medical advice. It specifies auspicious days for procedures like bloodletting, taking into account the patient's age and specific ailments. This practice, common in medieval medicine, underscores the integration of astrological beliefs with health practices.

The Language of Scholarship

The entire text of the Almanach cracoviense is rendered in Latin, the lingua franca of scholarship, religion, and administration across Europe during the Middle Ages. This choice facilitated its potential reach among the educated elite.

The Dawn of Printing in Europe

A Revolutionary Technology

At the time of the Almanach's publication, the technology of printing with movable type was still in its nascent stages, having been developed only about twenty years prior. Its spread across Europe was rapid, largely driven by German printers.

European Dissemination

By the 1470s, printing presses were becoming established in various European centers. Printing had appeared in France and the Netherlands early in the decade, and by 1473, it had reached England and Spain. Straube's work in Kraków was part of this broader continental movement, bringing this transformative technology to Poland.

The Sole Surviving Copy

A Precious Relic

Remarkably, a single copy of the Almanach cracoviense ad annum 1474 has survived to the present day. This invaluable historical document measures approximately 37 cm by 26.2 cm.

Custodians of History

This sole surviving copy is preserved within the esteemed collections of the Jagiellonian University in Kraków. Its presence there ensures its continued study and preservation for future generations.

Further Exploration

Related Texts

To deepen your understanding of early printed materials and their historical context, consider exploring:

Hortulus Animae: Another significant early printed work.

Printing History

Investigate the broader impact and development of this revolutionary technology:

History of printing in Poland: The evolution of the printing press within the region.

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References

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The Cracovian Almanac

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What is the Almanach Cracoviense? ℹ️

📅 A Calendar of Significance

📖 An Incunable Masterpiece

💡 A Glimpse into Medieval Knowledge

The Printer and the Scholar 🖋️

👨‍🎨 Kasper Straube: The Pioneer

🧠 Attributed Authorship

Contents and Purpose 📚

🌟 Astronomical Data

⛪ Religious and Temporal Information

🩸 Medical Guidance

🗣️ The Language of Scholarship

The Dawn of Printing in Europe 🌍

🚀 A Revolutionary Technology

🗺️ European Dissemination

The Sole Surviving Copy 🏛️

🔍 A Precious Relic

🎓 Custodians of History

Further Exploration 💡

📖 Related Texts

📈 Printing History

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is the Almanach Cracoviense?

A Calendar of Significance

An Incunable Masterpiece

A Glimpse into Medieval Knowledge

The Printer and the Scholar

Kasper Straube: The Pioneer

Attributed Authorship

Contents and Purpose

Astronomical Data

Religious and Temporal Information

Medical Guidance

The Language of Scholarship

The Dawn of Printing in Europe

A Revolutionary Technology

European Dissemination

The Sole Surviving Copy

A Precious Relic

Custodians of History

Further Exploration

Related Texts

Printing History

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice