11 Forgotten Traditions from the Renaissance Making a Comeback Today

Trista - June 23, 2025

The Renaissance, often hailed as a golden age of artistic innovation and cultural transformation, gave rise to countless customs that shaped society for centuries. Yet, as time marched on, many of these vibrant traditions faded into obscurity—overshadowed by changing tastes and modern trends. Today, however, we’re witnessing a fascinating revival. Across the globe, individuals and communities are breathing new life into Renaissance practices, proving that culture truly moves in cycles. These revived customs are not only reconnecting us with history but also finding fresh relevance in our contemporary world.

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1. Illuminated Manuscripts

During the Renaissance, illuminated manuscripts dazzled with ornate borders, gold leaf, and intricate calligraphy—serving as masterpieces of both art and scholarship. Today, this meticulous craft is experiencing a revival among modern calligraphers and book artists. Workshops and online communities now teach the techniques behind these hand-decorated books, while digital adaptations make the tradition accessible to a wider audience. Illuminated journaling—where people add decorative flourishes to their personal notebooks—is a prime example of this trend’s contemporary appeal.

Smithsonian Magazine: Illuminated Manuscripts

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2. Masquerade Balls

Masquerade balls once enchanted Renaissance Italy, blending social intrigue with political maneuvering behind ornate masks and lavish costumes. Today, these opulent gatherings are experiencing a renaissance of their own, reimagined as immersive parties and themed galas across the globe. Modern masquerades combine period dress with contemporary music, dance, and performance art, creating a unique fusion of past and present. Cities like Venice and New York now host annual masquerade events, drawing crowds eager to experience the mystery and glamour of this revived tradition.

BBC: The History of Masquerade Balls

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3. Herbal Medicine and Apothecaries

The Renaissance was a golden era for herbal medicine, with apothecaries expertly blending plants for healing and wellness. Today, this tradition is making a vibrant comeback as people turn to herbal remedies, essential oils, and botanical skincare for natural health solutions. Modern apothecaries often reference historical recipes, incorporating time-honored ingredients like lavender and rosemary into their offerings. This renewed interest bridges science and tradition, as both professionals and enthusiasts rediscover the power of nature’s pharmacy.

National Institutes of Health: Herbal Medicine

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4. Fresco Painting

Fresco painting—the art of applying pigment to wet plaster—defined the grandeur of Renaissance interiors. This technique is now enjoying renewed appreciation in both public art projects and creative home decor. Contemporary artists are embracing authentic materials to recreate historic effects or reinterpreting the style with modern subjects. Community mural projects, often inspired by masterpieces like Michelangelo’s, are bringing this ancient method back into urban spaces, connecting neighborhoods through bold, shared artistic expression.

The Art Story: Fresco Painting

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5. Courtly Dance

Elegant courtly dances such as the pavane and galliard once graced Renaissance courts, and now they’re stepping back into the spotlight. Historical dance classes and cultural festivals are teaching these sophisticated moves, while modern dance troupes meticulously recreate authentic choreography. Renaissance fairs often host lively dance workshops, inviting participants to experience the charm and precision of these timeless traditions firsthand.

Dance Magazine: Renaissance Dance

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6. Communal Banquets

Lavish communal banquets were a social highlight of the Renaissance, bringing people together over abundant feasts and grand displays. Today, this tradition is reborn through pop-up banquets, supper clubs, and farm-to-table gatherings that emphasize both spectacle and shared experience. Chefs are reinterpreting period recipes and curating themed dining events that transport guests to another era. The result is a renewed appreciation for communal dining and the artistry of historic menus.

National Geographic: A Feast for the Senses

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7. Patronage of the Arts

During the Renaissance, patronage by wealthy families fueled artistic innovation, commissioning works that still inspire awe today. Now, a modern wave of patronage is flourishing through platforms like Patreon, where individuals and groups directly fund creators. From crowdfunded public art installations to ongoing support for emerging artists, this renewed spirit empowers creatives and brings communities closer to the art they love.

The Guardian: The Return of Patronage

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8. Humanist Education

The humanist education movement of the Renaissance championed holistic learning, critical inquiry, and a reverence for classical texts. Today, these ideals are resurging in modern liberal arts curricula and interdisciplinary programs that emphasize both creativity and analytical thinking. Universities are increasingly incorporating Renaissance literature and philosophy into core studies, encouraging students to draw connections across disciplines. This renewed focus on the whole person mirrors the Renaissance belief in education as a path to personal fulfillment and societal progress.

Harvard Gazette: The Renaissance of Liberal Arts

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9. Alchemy and Experimental Science

The Renaissance fascination with alchemy blended mystical quests with hands-on experimentation, paving the way for modern chemistry. Today, that spirit of discovery is echoed in DIY science kits, makerspaces, and alternative wellness trends. Science museums and workshops often spotlight historical techniques, letting participants explore the experimental methods of Renaissance alchemists firsthand. This renewed curiosity not only honors the past but also inspires creative approaches to science and innovation in the present.

Scientific American: Alchemy and Science

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10. Artisanal Guilds and Craftsmanship

Artisanal guilds were at the heart of Renaissance craftsmanship, fostering collaboration, mentorship, and high standards. Today, this spirit thrives in makerspaces, cooperatives, and vibrant online communities where artisans share skills and resources. Local craft fairs and workshops echo the communal ethos of historical guilds, encouraging both mastery and innovation across generations. This revival not only preserves traditional techniques but also strengthens creative networks in our digital age.

Crafts Council: The Guild Revival

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11. Pageantry and Public Spectacle

The Renaissance era thrived on pageantry and public spectacle, filling cities with grand processions, festivals, and theatrical displays. Today, modern parades, street theater, and pageant-style events borrow from these lively traditions, captivating audiences with color and creativity. Renaissance fairs and historical reenactments especially embody this revival, inviting communities to step into the past and celebrate collective identity through performance and spectacle.

History Today: Pageants of the Renaissance

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Conclusion

The growing revival of Renaissance traditions reflects our enduring fascination with creativity, community, and craftsmanship. By adapting illuminated manuscripts, masquerade balls, courtly dances, and more to contemporary life, we celebrate the richness of the past while enhancing our modern experiences. These customs form a vibrant bridge between eras, inviting us to connect, learn, and create together. Why not explore a workshop, attend a festival, or try a new craft? Rediscovering these traditions can enrich our lives in unexpected and delightful ways.

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