687 facts for kids

The year 687 AD was a time of important changes in Europe and the Middle East. New leaders came to power, and a famous building began to take shape.

Key Events of 687

New Leaders and Kingdoms

• On December 15, a new leader for the Catholic Church was chosen. His name was Sergius, and he became the new Pope. The Pope is the spiritual leader of millions of Christians around the world.

• In what is now France, there were two main kingdoms: Neustria and Austrasia. King Theuderic III of Neustria was defeated in a battle. He lost to a powerful man named Pepin of Herstal.

• Pepin was known as the "Mayor of the Palace" of Austrasia. This title meant he was very powerful, almost like the real ruler, even though there was still a king. After his victory, Neustria and Austrasia were joined together again. Pepin then became the main leader of both areas.

• In Spain, a new king took over the Visigoths. His name was Egica, and he became king after Erwig. The Visigoths were a Germanic people who ruled a large part of the Iberian Peninsula at that time.

Famous Buildings and Visitors

• In the city of Jerusalem, a very important building project began. This was the start of the Dome of the Rock. This famous building is a shrine and a very important site for Muslims.

• A man named Adomnán traveled to Northumbria, a kingdom in what is now northern England. He visited the court of King Ecgfrith. Adomnán's goal was to help free Irish people who had been captured.

Images for kids

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  Pope Sergius I (687–701)