Revisit the talk on the medieval ‘tables of the poor’ and social care

On Wednesday evening 21 May, UCSIA and the Ruusbroec Society organised a lecture by historian Hannelore Franck on the fascinating world of medieval 'tables of the poor'.

The medieval 'tables of the poor'

These institutions played a central role in caring for the poor and sick, with food distribution serving not only to satisfy hunger but also as a social bonding agent and form of control within the urban community.

Using historical examples and sources, Hannelore Franck told the story of solidarity, religiously inspired care and the social significance of food in the Middle Ages.

UCSIA organised this lecture together with the Ruusbroec Society. The event was part of the UCSIA Solidarity Academy and the programme in the context of the 100th anniversary of the Ruusbroec Society.