Leopold VI

duke of Austria

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June 30, 2026

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Leopold VI, also known as Leopold the Glorious, was a prominent member of the Babenberg dynasty who ruled as Duke of Austria and Styria from 1198 to 1230. His reign was a period of significant prosperity for the Babenberg territories.1

Leopold VI was actively involved in imperial politics, supporting the Hohenstaufen dynasty. He was also a strong advocate for monasteries, founding a Cistercian monastery at Lilienfeld. He participated in multiple crusades, including those in Palestine, Egypt, southern France, and Spain. Despite his efforts to establish a separate Austrian bishopric in Vienna, he faced opposition from the churches in Passau and Salzburg. Leopold VI also played a role in imperial diplomacy, contributing to the Treaty of San Germano between Emperor Frederick II and Pope Gregory IX. He died in Italy in 1230 and was buried in Lilienfeld.1

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Austria
Later Babenberg period
His brother Leopold VI, the most outstanding member of the family, then took over as sole ruler (1198–1230). This was a time of great prosperity for the Babenberg countries. In imperial politics Leopold VI again took sides with the Hohenstaufen, backing Philip of Swabia. In church matters…
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His brother Leopold VI, the most outstanding member of the family, then took over as sole ruler (1198–1230). This was a time of great prosperity for the Babenberg countries. In imperial politics Leopold VI again took sides with the Hohenstaufen, backing Philip of Swabia. In church matters…
Read More