Cartularies are documentary collections or registers of charters, deeds, and other legal and historical records. They are typically compiled and stored by ecclesiastical or aristocratic institutions, such as monasteries, cathedrals, or noble families. These collections serve as authoritative repositories of legal and administrative documents, preserving vital information about land ownership, property rights, and other legal matters.
Cartularies were commonly created during the medieval period, when written records were essential for ensuring proper governance and enforcing legal obligations. They encompass a wide range of documents, including charters of land grants, leases, contracts, privileges, and records of financial transactions. These records often bear the seals and signatures of the parties involved, providing evidence of their authenticity and legally binding nature.
The compilation and maintenance of cartularies required meticulous organization and careful preservation, as they represented the lifeline for a community's legal and economic activities. They were crucial for resolving disputes, clarifying rights, and documenting the history and lineage of individuals and institutions.
Today, cartularies are valuable historical sources that provide insights into medieval societies, their legal systems, and the relationships between different social groups. Scholars consult these collections to study land tenure, feudal relationships, religious patronage, and the economic activities of the past. Their careful transcription and publication have made cartularies accessible to researchers, contributing to our understanding of the medieval world.
