Legal Definitions - furigeldum

Furigeldum refers to a historical payment or fine imposed as a penalty for the act of theft.

In various ancient and medieval legal systems, particularly in parts of Europe, furigeldum served as a form of restitution or punishment for individuals found guilty of stealing property. It was a monetary sum paid either to the victim of the theft or to a governing authority, such as a local lord or king, as a consequence of the crime.

• Imagine a scenario in a medieval village where a farmer, out of desperation, steals a sack of grain from a neighboring farm. If caught and found guilty by the local court or lord, the farmer might be ordered to pay furigeldum. This payment would compensate the victim for the stolen grain and serve as a punitive measure for the theft.

• Consider a bustling market town where a merchant discovers that valuable textiles have been stolen from their stall. If the thief is apprehended, the legal system of the time might require them to pay furigeldum to the merchant. This payment would aim to cover the value of the stolen goods and act as a deterrent against future acts of theft within the community.