Major Salt Caravan Trade Agreement Established
A caravan of 600 horses was arranged by Vlachs to deliver 1,500 modius of salt to Ragusan lord Tomo Bunić. The transaction was meant to benefit Dobrašin Veseoković, with Vlachs committing to a price that was half of the delivered salt value. This significant trade agreement underscored the economic vitality of the region.
600 horses used for the salt delivery.
Agreement facilitated by Vlachs for Lord Bunić.
Price set at half market value for salt.
Significant for regional economic ties.
What Happened?
A significant trade agreement took place involving a large caravan organized by the Vlachs to transport salt, a valuable commodity in medieval times. The Vlachs committed to delivering 1,500 modius of salt, a substantial quantity that highlights the economic activities between the hinterlands and the Republic of Ragusa. The deal was noteworthy not only for its scale, involving 600 horses, but also for the strategic pricing set by the Vlachs, who agreed to sell the salt at half its market value, indicating a competitive edge in their trading practices.
This agreement was made with Ragusan lord Tomo Bunić, which reflects the power dynamics within the region and the reliance of Ragusa on external sources for essential goods. The transaction was directed for Dobrašin Veseoković, indicating the interconnected nature of local economies and individual merchants or nobility within these trading networks. Such arrangements were crucial for the sustenance of city-states reliant on agrarian and pastoral products from surrounding areas.
The delivery of salt would not only fulfill local demand but also potentially strengthen ties between the Vlachs and the Ragusan authorities, setting a precedent for future trade agreements. The scale of this caravan suggests that it was a well-organized effort, indicating the presence of established routes and knowledge in managing large shipments effectively.
Why Does it Matter?
The establishment of this trade agreement is interesting as it illustrates the economic interdependencies that were forming in the medieval Adriatic region. The transaction reflects the critical role that salt played not just in preservation of food but also as a medium of exchange in trade agreements. It underscores the significance of trade networks in fostering relationships between different ethnic and cultural groups, paving the way for economic and political alliances that could impact regional stability.