1160 (MCLX) was a leap year starting on Friday of the Julian calendar, the 1160th year of the Common Era (CE) and Anno Domini (AD) designations, the 160th year of the 2nd millennium, the 60th year of the 12th century, and the 1st year of the 1160s decade. As of the start of 1160, the Gregorian calendar was 7 days ahead of the Julian calendar, which was the dominant calendar of the time.

• Erik den helige is succeeded by Karl Sverkersson. See Swedish monarchs.
• Heiji Rebellion in Japan
• Yasovarman II succeeds his uncle Dharanindravarman as ruler of the Khmer Empire. Dharanindravarman's son Jayavarman, acquieses to his cousin's succession and goes into exile in neighboring Champa.
• Spital am Semmering founded by Margrave Ottokar III of Styria
• The City of Tomar is founded in Portugal by Gualdim Pais