The Fuero Real: Alfonso X's Code of Municipal Law (Medieval Academy Books)

This book presents an English translation of King Alfonso X of Castile-León’s municipal law code, a companion to his monumental Siete Partidas. Known as El Rey Sabio (“the Learned King”), Alfonso X (1252-1284) was one of the most influential legislators of medieval Europe.While the Siete Partidas codified the laws of the entire realm, the Fuero real - intended for the towns of Castile and Extremadura - sought to replace diverse local customs with a unified legal framework.Comprising four books, it addresses the Catholic faith and the rights of the Church; the king and his authority; laws and the administration of justice; marriage and inheritance; buying and selling; heretics; Jews; and criminal acts. Medieval history professor Joseph F. O’Callaghan’s translation, based on Gonzalo Martínez Díez’s critical edition, offers scholars and students alike a vital resource for understanding the social, religious, and political dimensions of thirteenth-century Spain.By making this key text acce