Lübeck: Dancing in Houppelandes and general merriment

Last weekend, Lübeck in Northern Germany hosted this year's International Hanseatic Day to celebrate the common history of hanseatic cities all across Europe. The original Hanseatic League started out in the 13th century as an association of merchants which then developed into a league of cities. By the 17th century, it had lost its significance, but since the 1980s the idea has been revived - nowadays the league's aim is to form new ties of friendship and collaboration between member cities and promote European unity.

As citizens of another member of the league, we performed ten dances that originate in the times of the original Hanseatic League, accompanied by the wonderful "Lüneburger Stadtpfeiferey", a woodwind group.










We worked up quite a sweat since the weather was extremely nice, but it was great fun and afterwards, Tobi & I explored the Hansa Market with stalls from 120 cities and the medieval & renaissance camp site near the cathedral.

 
Comparing fashions at the stall from Viljandi (Estonia), where the next event will be held.






Later that night, the plague struck...




Some details:
My new poulaines (machine sewn out of leather I had lying around to test the fit, which was a good idea since they're a tad wide)

 

My new veil from behind, now finished with a hand rolled hem instead of hasty machine tacking.