Final answer:
After an initial decline post-Roman Empire, medieval Europe experienced a resurgence in trade and transport, facilitated by maritime trade and new trade routes.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the medieval times, following the collapse of the Roman Empire, there was a decline in the Roman transport network and trade due to an overall period of political instability and reduced safety on the roads. However, trade and commerce eventually began to flourish again, particularly with the expansion of maritime trade and the development of new commercial infrastructure, such as double-entry bookkeeping and an international banking system.
The city-states of Italy, especially Venice, benefited largely from these rejuvenated trade routes. The revival of these routes, coupled with the spreading of Islamic ideas and the Silk Roads, provided the groundwork for economic growth and the exchange of culture and knowledge, propelling European nations towards the Renaissance.
In the 13th century, economic growth led to the revitalization of trade networks in Europe. These included the Mediterranean routes and the Hanseatic League, which helped foster a network economy. Cities like Florence become financial centers and the gold florin became a key currency for international trade. Although overland routes like the Silk Roads were fraught with challenges such as high costs and dangers due to robbers, maritime trade continued to expand, notably aiding the prosperity of Venice through trade with Islamic merchants. These developments collectively contributed to the increasing commercial activity and cultural exchanges across Europe.