Agnes I, Countess of Nevers facts for kids
Agnes I was an important noblewoman who lived a long time ago, from 1170 to around 1192 or 1193. She was a powerful countess, meaning she ruled over large areas of land. These lands included Nevers, Auxerre, and Tonnerre, which are regions in France. Agnes became a countess in 1185 and held her titles until her death. Her father was Guy, who was also a Count of Nevers, Auxerre, and Tonnerre. Her mother was Mathilde de Burgundy.
Becoming a Powerful Countess
Agnes became the ruler of Nevers, Auxerre, and Tonnerre when her brother, William V, passed away in 1181. This made her the "heiress," meaning she was next in line to inherit these important lands.
Her first marriage was to a nobleman named Olivier "Albus," who was the lord of Grignon. Sadly, Olivier died sometime between 1181 and 1184.
After Olivier's death, King Philip Augustus helped arrange a new marriage for Agnes. In 1184, when she was just 14 years old, she married Peter II of Courtenay. This was a common practice for powerful families in those times, as marriages often helped secure alliances and power.
Ruling Her Lands
In 1185, Agnes and her husband Peter confirmed special rights for the church of Saint-Étienne. They did this by signing a document called a "charter." This showed their support for the church.
Later, on June 10, 1190, they signed another charter. This time, they gave up some of their family's old rights to the church of Saint-Cyr. This was a way of showing their devotion and support.
In 1191, Agnes and Peter bought the region of Tonnerre from Agnes's mother, Mathilde of Burgundy. This helped them to fully control all of Agnes's inherited lands.
Her Legacy
Agnes I passed away in 1192 or 1193. At the time, her husband, Peter, was far away fighting in the Third Crusade in the Holy Land. The Crusades were a series of religious wars fought in the Middle Ages.
Agnes left behind a daughter named Matilda. Matilda was born in 1188 and later became the Countess of Nevers, Auxerre, and Tonnerre, just like her mother. Matilda married Hervé IV of Donzy in 1199 and later Guigues IV of Forez in 1226. Matilda lived until 1257, continuing her family's important legacy.
