Murage meaning

Murage definitions

What is Murage?

Murage is a term that dates back to medieval times in England. It refers to a fee that was imposed for the building or repair of walls around a town or city. This fee was typically collected from the residents of the town and was used to fund the construction and maintenance of these protective walls.

History of Murage

The practice of collecting murage dates back to the 13th century when many towns and cities in England began to fortify their boundaries with walls. These walls were essential for protecting the residents from external threats such as invasions and raids. The revenue generated from murage was crucial for ensuring the security and safety of the inhabitants.

How Murage was Collected

Murage was collected through various means, such as tolls on goods entering the town or taxes on property owners. The collection of murage was often overseen by local officials or authorities who were responsible for managing the funds and overseeing the construction projects related to the town walls.

Significance of Murage

Murage played a significant role in the development and growth of towns and cities during the medieval period. The protective walls funded by murage provided a sense of security and allowed for economic activities to flourish within the town. Additionally, these walls often symbolized the power and status of the town, making them essential for its prestige.

Decline of Murage

Over time, the need for murage decreased as advancements in military technology made town walls less effective as defensive structures. Additionally, the burden of paying murage became increasingly unpopular among residents, leading to its decline in the 16th century. Eventually, murage was largely replaced by other forms of taxation to fund public infrastructure projects.

Legacy of Murage

Although murage is no longer in practice, its legacy can still be seen in many towns and cities across England where remnants of medieval walls stand as a testament to their once vital role in protecting the inhabitants. The history of murage serves as a reminder of the importance of fortifications in safeguarding communities and shaping the urban landscape.

Murage Examples

1. The city council imposed a murage tax to fund the construction of the new city walls.
2. The murage fee was collected from merchants entering the city with goods for sale.
3. The king granted the town the right to collect murage for repairs to the gates.
4. The murage revenue was used to enhance the defensive capabilities of the castle.
5. Travelers passing through the town were required to pay a murage toll at the gate.
6. The murage granted the town the authority to fortify its boundaries against invaders.
7. The citizens petitioned for a reduction in the murage tax due to economic hardships.
8. The murage walls were strengthened to withstand attacks from enemy forces.
9. The town's prosperity allowed for the renovation of the murage defenses.
10. The murage funds were allocated towards hiring additional guards for the city.

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