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The fairs of Champagne
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| In 1175, the new dispositions taken by the
charter of frankness from Henri "the Liberal" (guaranteeing freedom of the
citizens) attract an important population in Provins. The economical
activity then makes a great rise in Champagne. |
The fairs in Provins, Troyes and Lagny became very important crossing
points and exchanges for many
European merchants: Flemings, Lombard, Catalans, etc..., and even
eastern...
During their voyages towards the Champagne, like their departures,
these rich merchant persons were
protected with their loadings by the guard from the Count thanks to the
"conduit des fairs". These commercial meetings take place 3 times by year:
in May, June, and September during 2 until 3 weeks.
One counts then, in Provins more than
3000 craftsmen gathered by streets or district. Provins is famous for its
industry clothier: a black wool cloth called "ners or nerve of Provins".
The city has its own currency: the "denier Provinois", and also its own
alder, its weight and own measurement for the grain. The bankers and the
changers have a privileged place at the time of the transactions.
It is at the time of these fairs that will develop the modern means of
payment. |
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