During this period Roman Empire Collapse. The cities virtually disappeared in Western Europe. One cause of this was the absence of gold. The Romans obtained this gold from Africa and traded it with the Orient.

Rather, this period was a period of agricultural expansion. This prepared the way for the revival of city life from the 10th century and the growth of foreign trade. Between the 12th and 14th centuries, Western Europe was again able to attain high-level prosperity. This led to the growth of Science & Technology and towns.

This paved way for the establishment of universities in cities. The universities played an important role in the growth of new learning and new ideas which gradually to lead to the Renaissance and the rise of a new Europe.