1338
Ashikaga shogunate formally established in Kyoto
Ashikaga Takauji installed his bakufu in the Muromachi district of Kyoto, reuniting warrior government with the imperial court for the first time.
Mechanical striking clock installed at Milan's San Gottardo
Among the earliest mechanical clocks in Europe, the San Gottardo tower clock struck the hours with an automated bell, astonishing Milanese citizens accustomed…
Ambrogio Lorenzetti finishes Good and Bad Government
In Siena's Palazzo Pubblico, Lorenzetti completed an allegorical fresco cycle showing the effects of justice and tyranny on city and countryside.
Declaration of Rhense asserts imperial autonomy
The seven German prince-electors, weary of papal interference, agreed at Rhense that whoever they elected became Emperor without need for papal confirmation…
Ashikaga Tadayoshi opens trade missions to Yuan China
Despite the formal break with the Yuan court, Japanese 'tally ships' began carrying copper, swords, and lacquerware to Ningbo, returning with silver…
Want 1338 in context? Print the whole 14th century as a one-sheet timeline chart.
Frequently asked
What happened in the year 1338?
Saeculum lists 5 events from 1338. The most significant is Ashikaga shogunate formally established in Kyoto: Ashikaga Takauji installed his bakufu in the Muromachi district of Kyoto, reuniting warrior government with the imperial court for the first time.
What era was 1338 part of?
1338 falls within the Late Middle Ages (1301-1500). Plague, papal schism, and the seeds of nation-states.
Which regions saw notable events in 1338?
The events from 1338 span East Asia and Europe.