The Jagiellonians and the Stars

TL;DR

This paper explores the prominent role of the Jagiellonian University and courts in 15th-16th century astronomy and astrology, highlighting their historical significance despite limited sources.

Contribution

It uncovers the influence of the Jagiellonians on medieval astronomy and astrology using scarce historical evidence.

Findings

Jagiellonian University was a major center for astronomy and astrology.

Astronomy and astrology were widely used in Jagiellonian courts.

Historical sources on this topic are very limited.

Abstract

The largest centre for astronomical and astrological study in the fifteenth century was the University of Cracow, which always was under special care of Jagiellonians. The use of astronomy and astrology at Jagiellonian courts in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries were very common. We try to convince the reader about this, exposing very limited historical sources.