15 Little Known Charlemagne Facts

Introduction:

Charlemagne, also known as Charles the Great, was the king of the Franks from 768, the king of Italy from 774, and from 800 the first emperor in western Europe since the collapse of the Roman Empire three centuries earlier. He was a powerful and influential figure in European history, but there are many little-known facts about him that are fascinating to discover. In this article, we will explore 15 intriguing Charlemagne facts that may surprise you.

Fact 1: Charlemagne was illiterate

Despite his many accomplishments and contributions to education and culture during his reign, Charlemagne himself was unable to read or write. He relied on others to help him with his correspondence and documentation.

Fact 2: Charlemagne was a tall man

Charlemagne was known for his impressive stature, standing at around 6 feet 4 inches tall. This was considered unusually tall for the time period, earning him the nickname “Charles the Great.”

Fact 3: Charlemagne had many wives

Charlemagne was married four times during his life and had numerous concubines. He had at least 18 children, many of whom played important roles in European history.

Fact 4: Charlemagne was crowned Emperor by surprise

On Christmas Day in the year 800, Charlemagne attended mass at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. During the ceremony, Pope Leo III unexpectedly placed a crown on Charlemagne’s head, declaring him the Emperor of the Romans.

Fact 5: Charlemagne was a skilled horseman

Charlemagne was known for his love of horses and his skill in riding them. He often used horses in battle and was an accomplished equestrian.

Fact 6: Charlemagne established the Carolingian Renaissance

Charlemagne was a patron of the arts and education, and he played a crucial role in the revival of culture and learning in the Frankish Empire. This period of intellectual and cultural revival became known as the Carolingian Renaissance.

Fact 7: Charlemagne’s empire was huge

At its height, Charlemagne’s empire covered much of western and central Europe, including modern-day France, Germany, Italy, and parts of Spain and Hungary.

Fact 8: Charlemagne was a devout Christian

Charlemagne was a devout Christian and played a significant role in the spread of Christianity throughout Europe. He often used conversion as a tool for expanding his empire.

Fact 9: Charlemagne was a lover of books

Despite his illiteracy, Charlemagne had a great appreciation for books and learning. He established schools and monasteries throughout his empire, promoting education and literacy.

Fact 10: Charlemagne’s tomb is a mystery

Charlemagne was buried in a grand mausoleum in Aachen, Germany, although the exact location of his tomb is unknown. Over the centuries, the tomb has been opened and moved several times, leading to speculation about the whereabouts of his remains.

Fact 11: Charlemagne was a skilled diplomat

Charlemagne had a talent for diplomacy and was able to maintain alliances with neighboring kingdoms while expanding his empire. He often used marriage alliances to secure political relationships.

Fact 12: Charlemagne was a warrior king

Charlemagne was a formidable warrior and led numerous military campaigns to expand his empire and defend his territories. He was known for his strategic prowess and battlefield tactics.

Fact 13: Charlemagne spoke several languages

Charlemagne was fluent in Latin and Greek, as well as his native Frankish language. He encouraged the use of Latin as the language of the court and the church.

Fact 14: Charlemagne had a love for hunting

Charlemagne enjoyed the sport of hunting and often spent time in the forests of his empire pursuing game. Hunting was a popular pastime among the nobility of the time.

Fact 15: Charlemagne’s legacy lives on

Despite his death in 814, Charlemagne’s legacy continues to influence European history and culture to this day. He is remembered as a great leader and unifier of Europe.

Conclusion

These 15 little-known facts about Charlemagne offer a glimpse into the life and legacy of this remarkable figure in European history. From his towering height to his love of books and hunting, Charlemagne was a complex and fascinating individual whose impact is still felt centuries later. As we continue to study and learn from the achievements of historical figures like Charlemagne, we gain a deeper understanding of the world in which we live.