Konrad von Hochstaden facts for kids

Konrad von Hochstaden

Konrad von Hochstaden (also known as Conrad of Hochstadt) was a very important leader in Germany during the 1200s. He was the Archbishop of Cologne from 1238 until he passed away in 1261. An archbishop is a high-ranking church leader, similar to a bishop, but in charge of a larger area.

Early Life and Becoming Archbishop

Konrad was born sometime between 1198 and 1205. His father was Count Lothar of Hochstadt, and his mother was Mathilde of Vianden. We don't know much about his early childhood.

When he was older, Konrad started his career in the church.

• In 1216, he became the priest of a church in Wevelinghoven.
• By 1226, he was a "canon" at the Cologne Cathedral. A canon is a special priest who helps run a cathedral.
• Later, he became the "provost" of the cathedral, which is an even higher position.

In 1238, the church leaders in Cologne chose Konrad to be their new Archbishop. He received his special symbols of office from Emperor Frederick II in Italy that same year. The next year, in 1239, he was officially made a priest and then consecrated as archbishop.

A Powerful Leader

Konrad von Hochstaden was a very powerful figure in his time, not just in the church but also in politics.

Dealing with Emperors and Popes

When Konrad first became archbishop, he supported Emperor Frederick II. However, the Emperor and Pope Gregory IX were often in conflict. After the Pope removed the Emperor from the church in 1239, Konrad decided to switch sides and support the Pope.

Later, when Pope Innocent IV removed Emperor Frederick II from power in 1245, Konrad played a big part in choosing the next king. He helped elect Henry Raspe as king. When Henry died, Konrad again used his influence to help the young William of Holland become king.

Conflicts and Influence

Konrad's time as archbishop was full of challenges. He often had disagreements with nearby princes and even with the people of Cologne. The citizens of Cologne did not always want the archbishop to have control over their city. Konrad usually won these struggles, showing he was a strong and determined leader.

Because of his help in electing kings, Pope Innocent IV made Konrad an "Apostolic legate" in Germany in 1249. This meant he was the Pope's special representative. The church leaders in another important city, Mainz, even wanted Konrad to be their archbishop too! But the Pope decided it was better not to give one person control over two such important areas.

Later Years and Legacy

After a while, Konrad's good relationship with Pope Innocent IV and King William changed. He even tried to remove King William from power. However, King William died unexpectedly in 1256, which ended Konrad's plans.

After King William's death, Konrad was again very important in choosing the next king. He supported Richard of Cornwall (who was the brother of the King of England) and crowned him king in 1257. This was one of Konrad's last major actions.

Konrad von Hochstaden passed away on September 28, 1261. He is buried in the famous Cologne Cathedral. He is remembered for laying the first stone of the new Cologne Cathedral on August 15, 1248. This amazing cathedral is still standing today!

Images for kids

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  Konrad von Hochstaden at the tower of Cologne City Hall