Herman I of Baden facts for kids
Herman I of Baden (born around 1040 – died April 25, 1074 in Cluny) was an important figure in German history. He held the title of Margrave of Verona, even though he never actually ruled there. He is also known as the first ancestor of the powerful family line that would become the Margraves of Baden.
Early Life and Family
Herman was born in Freiburg im Breisgau. He was the oldest son of Berthold I of Zähringen.
He married a woman named Judit. She was a Countess from the areas of Backnang and Sulichgau. Through his marriage to Judit, Herman gained rights to the lands around Baden. These lands later became the most important part of his family's territory.
Founding a Monastery
Herman and his wife Judit worked together to establish a religious community. They founded an Augustinian monastery called Backnang Abbey.
Over time, the monastery fell into disrepair. However, their son rebuilt it in 1123. For many years afterward, this monastery served as the burial place for five generations of the Margraves of Baden.
Becoming a Margrave
In 1061, Herman's father became the Duke of Carinthia. At this time, Herman received the special title of Margrave of Verona. A margrave was a type of count who protected a border area.
Even though he had this title, Herman never actually governed Verona. Verona was a territory connected to Carinthia. However, the title of margrave stayed with his family for many years to come. Herman was also a count in the region known as the Breisgau.
Later Life and Legacy
In 1073, Herman decided to leave his wife and family life. He chose to become a monk. He joined the Cluny Abbey as a lay brother, which means he lived a religious life without being a priest.
He passed away at Cluny Abbey on April 25, 1074. The Catholic Church remembers him on April 25 each year.
Herman and Judit had two children:
- Hermann II (who died on October 8, 1130)
- Luitgard
