Golden Bull of Rimini

Europe [1226]

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June 29, 2026

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The "Golden Bull of Rimini" was not a constitution for the Holy Roman Empire. That description applies to the Golden Bull of Emperor Charles IV, promulgated in 1356. This document aimed to prevent papal interference in German politics and solidify the power of the prince-electors in choosing the Holy Roman Emperor. It established that a majority vote of the seven electors was sufficient for election and that the electoral vote was tied to specific lands, preventing division.

The Golden Bull of Rimini, issued in 1226 by Emperor Frederick II, served as a legal basis for the Teutonic Order to conquer and settle lands from the pagan Prussians. It granted the order rights to lands they would conquer, in addition to those provided by Polish Duke Conrad of Mazovia. This charter was crucial for the Teutonic Knights' expansion into Eastern Europe.

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Teutonic Order
Eastern Europe and Prussia.
…obtained from Frederick the so-called Golden Bull of Rimini as a legal basis for the settlement. By this charter, Frederick confirmed to Hermann and to the order not only the lands to be granted by Conrad but also those that the knights were to conquer from the Prussians. Later (1234),…
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…obtained from Frederick the so-called Golden Bull of Rimini as a legal basis for the settlement. By this charter, Frederick confirmed to Hermann and to the order not only the lands to be granted by Conrad but also those that the knights were to conquer from the Prussians. Later (1234),…
Read More