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Welcome to the collection of materials dedicated to the technologies of the 15th century — an era marked by significant development of technical knowledge and innovations that enabled the transition from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. If you are studying or interested in the history of technology, here you will find a comprehensive description of key inventions and engineering solutions that influenced many spheres of life and activity of that time.

The technologies of the 15th century cover a wide range of fields: from inventions in agriculture and crafts to achievements in military affairs, construction, and navigation. Mechanical clocks, which became more accurate and entered everyday life, were actively improved during this era. Hand and water mills were widely used, contributing to increased productivity in the production of flour and other materials.

In the field of material recognition and use, metallurgy developed — forging, weapon manufacturing, tools, and armor became more efficient thanks to new melting and processing methods. The printing press, patented by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century, revolutionized the dissemination of information, laying the foundations for mass book publishing and shifting the cultural landscape.

Navigation and maritime technologies received a powerful boost due to improvements in the compass, astrolabe, cartography, and shipbuilding. These tools allowed explorers to go beyond known territories, chart new sea routes, and expand geographical knowledge.

Construction technologies of the 15th century reflected the transition to new architectural forms — slender Gothic cathedrals appeared, fortified fortresses and castles were built with innovative engineering solutions for defense. Technologies for producing textiles, ceramics, and glass also developed, providing improved quality and variety of household and artistic products.

Overall, the technologies of the 15th century represent a complex of interconnected technical knowledge and tools that formed the foundation for further discoveries and transformations in science, industry, and culture. Studying this period allows us to understand the origins of many modern engineering and manufacturing processes.

15th Century Technologies

Accurate depiction of medieval knight armor with detailed craftsmanship

Knight Armor in a Historical Context