Hospital structure, care and carers in Extremadura hospitals during the Low Middle Ages

Abstract

The Christian philosophy, the battles with religious content, poor economy and cultural heterogeneity, were relevant characteristics that influenced hospitals structure, resources and care. Paupers, the sick, pilgrims, homeless and orphans were assisted in this homes or hospitals. Food, rest and administration of ointments and medicines were the main ways of being looked after. All these activities were carried out under the religious principles of charity and love to others. Carers were mainly clergymen or sometimes lay people motivated by the above mentioned principles. Clergymen, besides being carers, were in charge of tasks related to management and organisation of the place, leaving the cleaning and cooking for the laic.

Keywords

• Hospitales
• Cuidadores
• Cuidados
• Baja Edad Media
• Extremadura