„Care Thoroughly about Your Health” Prevention and Treatment of Diseases on the Esterházy Court in the 17th Century

Abstract

The article deals with the treatment and prevention of diseases in the court of one of the highestranking Hungarian aristocrats of 17th century - Palatine Mikuláš Esterházy (1583-1645). Esterhazy belong to the most distinguished figures in early modern Hungary, he managed to earn the title of Palatine, the highest representative of the country, and this post he held for 20 years (1625-1645). The study will focus on health care on his court and not just about his family, but all the courtiers, which oversaw the court master whose responsibilities were in this area given by written instruction. Extremely popular among aristocrats were bath cures in thermal spas that were required not only for therapeutic purposes, but also for relaxation reasons. Spa visits were also a place of various sociability events and entertainment.