Drogo of Metz facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Drogo
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Decorated initial T from Drogo's personal sacramentary.
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| Born | 17 June 801 Aachen, Germany |
| Died | 8 December 855 (aged 54) River Oignon, at Himeriacum, Bourgogne, Germany |
| Father | Charlemagne |
| Mother | Regina |
Drogo (born June 17, 801 – died December 8, 855) was an important figure in the Frankish Empire. He was a son of the famous Emperor Charlemagne. Drogo was also known as Dreux or Drogon.
Early Life and Family
Drogo was born on June 17, 801, in Aachen, which was then part of Gaul. Aachen was a main winter palace for the Carolingian Empire. Today, this area is in Germany.
Drogo's mother was Regina. She was one of Charlemagne's partners. Drogo had many half-brothers and sisters through his father. He had one full brother named Hugh (802–844).
After their father Charlemagne died, Drogo and Hugh were raised by their half-brother, Louis the Pious. Louis was the new Emperor. Drogo's brother Hugh became an important abbot and advisor. He was killed in a battle in 844.
Drogo was one of the few children of Charlemagne who lived longer than their father. This gave him good chances for power.
Drogo's Career and Influence
When Louis the Pious became Emperor in 814, Drogo and Hugh were sent to live in monasteries. This was a common path for royal sons who were not in line for the throne.
Drogo became a cleric (a church official) in 818. By 820, he was an abbot at Luxeuil. An abbot is the head of a monastery.
In 822, Emperor Louis the Pious held a special meeting. He wanted to make peace with his sons and other important leaders. Drogo was there, along with his brothers. Louis soon made Drogo the Bishop of Metz in 823. A bishop is a high-ranking church leader who oversees a region.
Drogo's influence at court grew over time. He was very loyal to Louis the Pious, especially when Louis faced rebellions from his own sons. This loyalty was very important.
Louis the Pious was restored as Emperor in Metz in 835. Drogo became a close advisor to Louis. He even helped persuade Louis to forgive his rebellious sons. Drogo became the Archbishop of Metz in 844. He held this important position for the rest of his life.
When Louis the Pious died, Drogo was with him. Louis asked Drogo to send his royal crown and sword to his son Lothair I. This showed that Lothar was the new ruler. Drogo also took charge of Louis's funeral. He buried Louis in Metz.
In 844, Drogo became even more important. He was appointed a special representative for the Pope in the Frankish lands. This meant he had great power in both France and Germany.
Drogo was also a great supporter of the arts. He helped create beautiful artworks in the 9th century. One famous example is the Drogo Sacramentary. This is a special book made for Drogo's personal use as Bishop of Metz. It contains prayers and is a beautiful example of art from that time. The book is now a treasure in France.
Metz was a very important city. It became the capital of Lotharingia in 843. Drogo's position there allowed him to support many artists.
Death
Drogo died on December 8, 855. He passed away after falling into the River Oignon while fishing. He was buried at the Abbey Church of St. Arnulf in Metz. He served as bishop for over 32 years. After his death, Adventius became the new bishop of Metz.
See also
- List of Bishops of Metz
- Carolingian dynasty
Images for kids
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Decorated initial T from Drogo's personal sacramentary.
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The Drogo Sacramentary, a special book made for Drogo.
