Solomon, Count of Cerdanya and Urgell facts for kids

Solomon (who died around 869 AD) was an important leader in a region that is now part of Spain and France. He was the count of Urgell and Cerdanya starting in 848. Later, in 860, he also became the Count of Conflent. He held these titles until he passed away.

Solomon's Role as a Leader

A historian named Ramon d'Abadal i de Vinyals believed that Solomon played a key role after another count, Sunifred I, Count of Barcelona, died in 848. Sunifred I might have been related to Solomon. Solomon made sure that Sunifred's children could take over their father's lands and acted as their protector.

In October 849, leaders met at an event called the Assembly of Narbonne. At this meeting, Solomon was officially confirmed as the Count of Urgell and Cerdanya. This meant he was recognized as the rightful ruler of these areas.

A Trip to Córdoba

In 863, Solomon traveled to Córdoba. At that time, Córdoba was a very important city in a Muslim-ruled part of Spain. Solomon's main reason for the trip was to ask for the return of some special items called relics that belonged to Saint Vincent. These relics were then held by the wali (a type of governor) of Zaragoza.

Historian Ramon d'Abadal i de Vinyals thinks this trip was more than just about relics. He believes it was a secret meeting to make sure the caliph (the top Muslim leader) would stay neutral or friendly. This was important because a powerful count named Humphrey, Count of Barcelona, was rebelling against the king from 862 to 864. Solomon likely wanted to avoid any trouble from the caliph during this difficult time.

The End of Solomon's Rule

The last time Solomon is mentioned in historical records is in 868. Another count, Wilfred the Hairy, is mentioned as the count in 870. Because of this, historians believe that Solomon died sometime between 868 and 870.