Discuss the causes of the development of cities in medieval Europe.

Explanation

(i) The emergence of feudalism was accompanied by the decline of trade and towns with the gradual decline of feudalism, particularly from the 11th century onward.
(ii) Towards the end of the Middle Age, the rise of the middle class led to the emergence of towns. The economic prosperity of the class helped in the development of cities in medieval Europe.
(iii) East-west contact also encouraged trade and commerce. As a result, art and crafts centres were established. In course of time, these centres became towns.