Some of the primary purposes of rivers and ponds in the Middle Ages included:
1. Transportation: Rivers were often the highways of the Middle Ages. They were used to transport goods and people, both for trade and for travel. Rivers also provided a source of water for mills, which were essential for grinding flour and other grains.
2. Food and Water: Both rivers and ponds were important sources of food. People would fish in them, and they would also use the water to irrigate their crops. Ponds were often created specifically for the purpose of raising fish, and these ponds were an important part of the diet of many people.
3. Defense: Rivers were also used as defensive barriers. Many castles were built on the banks of rivers, and these castles were often able to withstand sieges thanks to the protection provided by the water.
4. Recreation: Rivers and ponds were also used for recreation. People would swim in them, fish in them, and even play games on them. Rivers were also used for religious rituals, such as baptisms.
5. Economic Activities: Many important economic activities were centered around rivers and ponds. For example, watermills were used to grind grain, and fish markets were often located near rivers or ponds.
In short, rivers and ponds were vital resources in the Middle Ages, and they played an integral role in the daily lives of people from all walks of life.