The term "Saeculum obscurum," or "Dark Age," refers to a period in European history from the late 9th to the early 11th century. This era is characterized by a decline in cultural and economic activity following the fall of the Western Roman Empire. It is often marked by political instability, invasions, and a lack of written records, leading to a perception of ignorance and backwardness. During the Saeculum obscurum, the influence of the Catholic Church grew, as it became a central authority in a fragmented political landscape. Monasteries played a crucial role in preserving knowledge and culture, laying the groundwork for the later Carolingian Renaissance and the eventual revival of learning in Europe.