Ingelger facts for kids

Ingelger (died 888) was a powerful nobleman from the Frankish kingdom. He is known as the founder of the County of Anjou and the family line called the House of Anjou. This family would later become very important in French history.

His family believed that his father was named Tertullus and his mother was Petronilla.

Becoming a Powerful Noble

Around the year 877, Ingelger inherited lands from his father, Tertullus. This inheritance followed a rule set by King Charles the Bald. His father's lands included an area called Château-Landon. These lands were given to them by the king for their service. Ingelger was also a landowner in the regions of Gâtinais and Francia. People at the time described Ingelger as a very skilled military leader.

Ingelger's mother was related to Hugh the Abbot. Hugh was an important advisor to two kings, Louis II and Louis III of France. Because of this connection, Ingelger received special favors and important jobs from the kings.

King Louis II appointed Ingelger as the viscount of Orléans. A viscount was like a local governor or a king's representative. At that time, the city of Orléans was mainly controlled by its bishops.

Marriage and New Roles

In Orléans, Ingelger married Adelais. Her family was one of the most important in the region of Neustria. Adelais's uncles were Adalard, who was the Archbishop of Tours, and Raino, who was the Bishop of Angers. These relatives were very influential.

Later, Ingelger was given another important role. He became the military commander (called a prefect) in the city of Tours. This city was under the rule of his wife's uncle, Adalard.

Count of Anjou

At some point, Ingelger was made the Count of Anjou. A count was a powerful noble who ruled a large area called a county. At that time, the County of Anjou only reached as far west as the Mayenne River.

Some historical stories say that Ingelger became count because he defended the region from Vikings. However, many historians today believe his appointment was more likely due to his wife's powerful and influential family.

Ingelger died in 888. He was buried in the Church of Saint-Martin at Châteauneuf-sur-Sarthe. His son, Fulk the Red, took over his position after his death.

See also

In Spanish: Ingelger I de Anjou para niños