View source for Treaty of Artlenburg 1161

The Treaty of Artlenburg, signed in 1161 between Duke Henry (the Lion) of Saxony and the Gotlanders, was a pivotal agreement that granted the Gotlanders special trade privileges within Henry's domains. Gotland, located in the Baltic Sea, was a highly profitable trading hub during the 12th and 13th centuries. The treaty allowed Gotlanders to receive full redress for injuries or damage to their goods in towns under Henry's authority and exempted them from customs and wergild, indicating their strong bargaining position due to their influence as traders and seafarers.

The treaty addressed long-standing discord between the Germans and the Gotlanders, referred to as "evils" or Mala, likely stemming from unchristian acts. It sought to restore unity and concord, building on a similar arrangement established with Henry's grandfather, Lothar III. The prologue emphasized peace, Christian values, and eternal retribution, reflecting efforts to resolve enmities and hatreds between the two peoples.

Henry also expressed a desire for frequent visits from Gotlanders to his lands, particularly Lübeck, which he had seized in 1158 and would later become a key city in the Hanseatic League. The treaty aimed to foster stability and mutual benefit, reflecting Henry's strategic vision for expanding his influence in the region.