Evolution of food expenditure patterns in a Biscayan rural convent, (1585-1825)

Abstract

The convent of The Merced of Markina (Bizkaia), preserves their books of general expenses for an exceptionally wide period (1585-1830) and has added interest due to its rural location. The analysis of the alimentary consume patterns has allowed us to establish the variation on said patterns in the long run and its adjustment to the different economic situations that the convent went through. However, only in the expansive situation of the second half of the XVIII century they were able to maintain a similar diet to other convents in the Cantabrian area.

Keywords

• monjas
• consumo alimenticio
• gestión convento
• rentas
• orden de la merced