Rudolf of Zähringen facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rudolf of Zähringen |
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| Archbishop of Mainz | |
Rudolf of Zähringen (relief by Franz Xaver Hauser 1793/5)
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| Church | Catholic Church |
| Diocese | Electorate of Mainz |
| In Office | 1160–1161 |
| Personal details | |
| Born | c. 1135 |
| Died | 5 August 1191 |
Rudolf of Zähringen (born around 1135 – died August 5, 1191) was an important leader in the church during the 1100s. He was the archbishop of Mainz for a short time from 1160 to 1161. He also served as the prince-bishop of Liège. Rudolf was the son of Conrad I of Zähringen and Clemence of Luxembourg-Namur, who were powerful nobles.
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Rudolf's Early Church Career
Rudolf's journey in the church began when he was chosen by the people of Mainz to be their archbishop. This happened after the previous archbishop, Arnold of Selenhofen, passed away. However, things were complicated in Mainz at that time.
Challenges in Mainz
The city of Mainz was facing difficulties, and many important people, like nobles and church leaders, had left. They went to Frankfurt am Main and chose a different person, Christian of Buch, to be archbishop instead of Rudolf. This meant there were two people claiming to be the archbishop of Mainz!
Neither of these choices was approved by the emperor, Frederick Barbarossa, who was a very powerful ruler. To solve the problem, a big meeting called the Synod of Lodi was held. At this meeting, both Rudolf and Christian were told they could not be archbishops. Rudolf was also temporarily removed from the church.
Becoming Bishop of Liège
A few years later, in 1167, Rudolf was allowed back into the church. He then became the bishop of Liège. This was a very important position, almost as powerful as being the archbishop of Mainz. As bishop, Rudolf had both religious and political power.
Supporting His Family
As the bishop of Liège, Rudolf used his influence to support his family. He was a strong ally for his brother, Berthold IV, Duke of Zähringen. This shows how important family connections were in those times, even for church leaders.
Joining the Crusades
Rudolf was also a part of a major historical event: the Crusades. These were religious wars fought to take back holy lands.
Journey to Acre
On May 11, 1188, Rudolf arrived at the Siege of Acre with his own army. Acre was a very important city during the Crusades. Rudolf played a role in these battles.
His Final Journey
Rudolf of Zähringen passed away on August 5, 1191. He died while he was on his way back from the Crusade, near a place called Herdern. He was buried in the monastery of Saint Peter's there.
Images for kids
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Rudolf of Zähringen (relief by Franz Xaver Hauser 1793/5)
