The Rolls of Oléron are the oldest and best-known sea law regulating medieval shipping in North-western Europe. The Rolls of Oleron were the first common sea law written in the Isle of Oléron, France, in the late 12th century, prior to 1180, later evolving to encompass Northern Europe. Any later sea laws written in Northern Europe are largely based on or inspired by the Rôles d'Oléron. Sometimes known as the "Lawes of Pleron," they also formed the basis of similar agreements among 17th and 18th century pirates, known as Articles.
Rolls of Oléron
The Isle of Oléron or Oléron Island is an island off the Atlantic coast of France, on the southern side of the Pertuis d'Antioche strait.
Oléron island aerial view.
Château Fournier, located in Saint-Georges d'Oléron, bears witness to the island's wine-growing past. Today, it has been transformed into a retirement home.
Saint George's church, Oléron
Île d'Oléron bridge, seen from Le Château d'Oléron