On the course of temperature in Central Europe since the year 1000 A.D.

Abstract

The present contribution concerns with the course of temperatures in central Europe since the year 1000 A.D. Based on index calculations the various climatic phases, such as the Medieval Thermal Optimum and the Little Ice Age are discussed at the decennial level. For the time after 1500 A.D. a monthly subdivision is presented which especially lends itself to more detailed interpretations e.g. in the fields of agricultural and social history. By means of regression analysis temperature levels and annual mean temperatures are calculated, allowing an assessment of the major periods. The study reveals the great dimensions of natural fluctuation in the course of temperature in central Europe, hopefully contributing to a better understanding of Man-and-Environment relationship.