In the last medieval centuries, Catalan became a fully accepted written language. The foundation of universities ran parallel to the development of local practice of science. In those centuries, Catalan literature reached its height. Figures such as Ramon Llull, Arnau de Vilanova and Ausiàs Marc, and works such as Tirant lo Blanc (Tirant the White) are universally significant.

The technological and scientific advances made were also important. The metallurgical processes moved forward through the development of the “farga catalana” (Catalan process for producing iron). Gunpowder was used in firearms from the fifteenth century on and navigation was revolutionised by the compass and rudder. The prestige of Catalan medicine was advanced by Arnau de Vilanova, doctor to three kings and three popes.