In medieval Europe time was measured in moments instead of minutes. Each moment lasted about 90 seconds, with 40 moments making up an hour. The duration of moments varied with the seasons, lengthening in winter and shortening in summer. Sundials tracked the sun's movement and set the pace for daily life. Monks timed prayers and merchants arranged trade by these moments until mechanical clocks emerged in the 1200s and introduced the fixed minutes and hours used today. | The History Archives