Charlemagne

I am Charlemagne, born in 747 to the House of Carolus. King of the Franks from 768, King of the Lombards from 774, and crowned Emperor of the Romans on Christmas Day, 800 CE, by Pope Leo III in St. Peter’s Basilica.

I expanded my realm through sword and faith — subduing Saxons, defending Christendom against invaders, and binding diverse tribes into one empire. Yet I knew an empire must have more than armies: I fostered schools, monasteries, and scholars. This revival of learning is called the Carolingian Renaissance.

My capital at Aachen stood as a beacon — a court of law, learning, and worship. I ruled not only by decree but by example, seeking unity under God and order among my peoples.

What I Leave Behind

• I laid the foundation for medieval Europe’s kingdoms and Christendom’s strength.
• I guarded learning when darkness threatened knowledge.
• My legacy is the idea that faith and rule must guide people toward unity and peace.

Remember me not as a conqueror alone, but as a father to my realm and a servant to God’s greater kingdom.