Pistoia regulates funerals during plague
About this date: The collection is headed 11 May, while its opening transcription gives 2 May. The event therefore uses the month rather than concealing that documentary discrepancy.
Pistoia's authorities issue health ordinances covering movement, contaminated goods, and funerals. Burial and mourning practices become matters of civic regulation during epidemic.
Historical context
The statutes show that prayer and public administration were not mutually exclusive responses to disease. Church ceremonies also formed part of the urban activities officials sought to regulate.
Key points
- The rules restrict travel to affected neighboring areas.
- Funeral attendance and display receive attention.
- The regulations name officials responsible for enforcement.
People
- Pistoia's civic councils
- Simone Buonacorsi
Sources and further reading
- Health Ordinances in a Time of Mortality
Primary civic regulations with a modern introduction and archival locator.