Forms of Succession in the Kingdom of Georgia and Castile: A Comparative Analysis of Medieval Law

This article offers a comparative analysis of medieval inheritance law in the Kingdom of Georgia and Castile from the 10th to 15th centuries. By employing a legal-comparative approach, it examines basic aspects of two forms of succession: testamentary (ex testamento) and intestate (ab intestato). The study highlights both commonalities and differences in how each region adopted these forms, based on various medieval sources and scientific literature. Key aspects discussed include the influence of Roman law on the local legislations, the formal requirements for a will, the scope of testamentary freedom, intestate inheritance rules, degrees (priority order) of succession, gender issues, the inheritance rights of illegitimate children, widows and so on.