Details of the lecture

Beginning in Lübeck and Hamburg in the 13th century, the Hanseatic League eventually linked some 60 European cities in a series of trade agreements that transcended national bounds. Riga, Tallinn, Stockholm, Bruges, London, King’s Lynn, Nuremberg, Bremen, Danzig, Stettin and Konigsberg were all connected by an intricate series of contracts, defended by armed forces and a powerful navy, and vital to the economic prosperity of each city. The Brick Gothic style of architecture developed during this period, and many important churches, town halls, guildhalls, warehouses and offices were built in this style, many of which survive to this day. Understanding the importance of the Hanseatic League is essential to a knowledge of European mercantile history from the 13th to the 17th century, and to an appreciation of the art and architecture inspired by – and paid for by – this vital transnational association.

Lecturer: Simon Rees

Simon Rees, theartssocietycardiff.org.uk

Simon Rees studied at Colchester Royal Grammar School and Trinity College, Cambridge, receiving a BA and an MA in English Literature. He taught in Italy and Japan, exploring the art and architecture of both countries. From 1989 to 2012 he was Dramaturg at Welsh National Opera in Cardiff, working with set, costume and props designers and giving lectures on their work in opera production. Now a freelance writer and lecturer, he lectures widely on opera, art history and literature, travelling extensively with travel companies. He has published several novels, including the award-winning The Devil’s Looking-Glass, poems and opera librettos.