Elias I, Count of Maine facts for kids

Odo II of Blois and Elias I of Maine

Elias I (also known as Hélie or Élie) was an important count in a region of France called Maine. He lived a long time ago, in the 11th and 12th centuries. He became the Count of Maine after his cousin, Hugh V. Elias was also known as "de la Flèche" or "de Baugency." He was a powerful leader in his time.

Life as Count of Maine

Early Life and Family

Elias I was the son of Jean de la Flèche. His mother was Paula, who was the daughter of Herbert I, Count of Maine. This means Elias came from an important family in the region.

Becoming Count

In the year 1092, Elias's cousin, Hugh V, decided to sell the county of Maine to Elias. Elias paid 10,000 shillings for it. This made Elias the new Count of Maine.

Wars and Peace

After becoming count, Elias had to deal with conflicts. He was supported by Fulk IV, who was the Count of Anjou. Together, they continued a war against Robert II, who was the Duke of Normandy.

Later, Duke Robert II left for the First Crusade. This was a big religious journey to the Holy Land. While Robert was away, Elias made peace with William Rufus. William Rufus was the King of England and was in charge of Normandy at the time.

Family Life

First Marriage and Daughter

In 1090, Elias married Matilda. She was the daughter of Gervais II, Lord of Château-du-Loir. Elias and Matilda had one daughter together:

• Ermengarde: She later married Fulk V, who became the Count of Anjou and later the King of Jerusalem.

Second Marriage

In 1109, Elias married again. His second wife was Agnes, who was the daughter of William of Poitou. Agnes had previously been married to Alfonso VI, the King of Castile. Sadly, Agnes died the very next year.

Death and Burial

Elias I of Maine died on July 11, 1110. He was buried in the choir of the abbey church of Notre-Dame de la Couture in Le Mans, France.

See also

In Spanish: Elías I de Maine para niños