Medieval Alchemy

Medieval alchemy was a philosophical and proto-scientific practice that sought to transform base metals into noble ones, like turning lead into gold. Alchemists believed in a universal substance called the "philosopher's stone," which could grant immortality or spiritual perfection. Rooted in mysticism and early chemistry, alchemy combined experimental techniques with spiritual insights. It contributed to the development of modern science, especially chemistry, through its systematic study of materials and their properties. While many ideas were unscientific by today's standards, alchemy's quest for transformation influenced both scientific inquiry and the understanding of matter.