The beginning of the Middle Ages in Europe is often marked by the fall of the Western Roman Empire in AD 476. This event led to significant political, social, and economic changes as Europe transitioned from a classical antiquity dominated by Rome to a medieval society characterized by feudalism, localized governance, and agrarian economies. During this time, the Catholic Church emerged as a powerful institution, influencing all aspects of life. The Middle Ages, also known as the medieval period, spanned approximately a thousand years, encompassing both the early, high, and late Middle Ages, and shaping the development of European culture, politics, and society profoundly.