Legal Definitions - lex Longobardorum

Definition: The lex Longobardorum is an ancient legal code that was developed between the fifth and eighth centuries. It was in force until the reign of Charlemagne. The laws of the Lombards were seen cumulatively from the Edict of Rothari in A.D. 643, and added to by Liutprand. It was a subject of study in the early law school at Pavia.

Example: The lex Longobardorum was a set of laws that governed the Lombard people. These laws covered a wide range of topics, including property rights, marriage, and criminal offenses. For example, the code specified that a man's property should be divided equally among his sons upon his death. It also outlined the punishment for various crimes, such as theft and murder.

Explanation: The example illustrates how the lex Longobardorum was a comprehensive legal code that covered many aspects of Lombard life. The laws were designed to ensure fairness and justice in society, and they were enforced by the Lombard rulers. The code was an important part of Lombard culture and was studied by scholars in the early law school at Pavia.