Medieval Europe, spanning from the 5th to the late 15th century, was a period marked by the dominance of feudalism, where society was structured around lords, vassals, and serfs. The Catholic Church played a central role in daily life, influencing politics and culture. Major events included the Crusades, a series of religious wars, and the Black Death, a devastating plague that wiped out much of Europe’s population.

This era also saw the rise of powerful kingdoms, such as the Holy Roman Empire and the Kingdom of France, and the growth of towns and trade, which began to weaken the feudal system. Despite being called the "Dark Ages," the period was rich in cultural and architectural achievements, laying the groundwork for the Renaissance.