Holy Roman emperor: Quick Facts

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Charlemagne and Leo III

Map of Europe about 800 CE showing the extent of the Frankish kingdom under Charlemagne in light purple, covering much of present-day France, Germany, northern Italy, and neighboring regions. Areas inhabited by Slavic peoples who were tributary to Charlemagne are shaded in a darker purple to the east of the Frankish kingdom, including groups such as the Bohemians, Moravians, and Croats. Major cities, rivers, and neighboring kingdoms are labeled for context.

plaque with Christ receiving Magdeburg Cathedral from Emperor Otto I

Medieval manuscript miniature showing Frederick I as a crowned crusader holding an orb and scepter, with Henry of Schaftlarn kneeling and presenting a book to him.

Map showing the extent of the Holy Roman Empire in the 16th century, shaded in purple, covering much of Central Europe including present-day Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Czechia, Belgium, the Netherlands, eastern France, and northern Italy. Major cities, rivers, and neighboring regions such as France, Poland, the Ottoman Empire, and the Papal States are labeled for context.

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