Peregrini (Foreigners)

What are Peregrini (Foreigners) in Roman Law?

Quick Definition

Peregrini in Roman law are non-citizens who live within or interact with Roman territory but do not hold Roman citizenship. They are generally excluded from ius civile rights, meaning they cannot fully access Roman private law privileges such as formal ownership or certain legal actions. Their legal matters are often governed by ius gentium (the law of nations).

In Context

Peregrini play an important role in showing how Roman law adapts to diversity within its empire. While they could engage in trade and everyday dealings, their rights were more limited compared to citizens, especially in areas like property ownership and inheritance under Roman civil law. To manage disputes involving foreigners, Roman magistrates—particularly the praetor peregrinus—developed flexible legal principles under ius gentium. In exam scenarios, the key issue is often whether a foreigner can rely on Roman civil remedies or must instead depend on more general principles of fairness and international custom.

See Also

• Citizenship (Civitas)

• Ius Gentium

• Civil Rights

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