laws of visby
laws of Visby (vis-bee). A code of maritime customs and decisions adopted on the island of Gothland (in the Baltic Sea), where Visby was the principal port. • Most scholars believe that this code postdates the laws of Oléron. The code was influential throughout northern Europe. In recognition of the ancient code, the Visby Protocol to amend the Hague Rules was signed in Visby. The Hague–Visby Rules govern most of the world’s liner trade. — Also spelled laws of Wisby. — Also termed Gothland sea laws.