Sunderolt facts for kids

Sunderolt (sometimes spelled Sunderhold) was an important leader in the church. He served as the Archbishop of Mainz from the year 889 until he passed away on June 25, 891. An Archbishop is like a very high-ranking bishop who oversees a large area. Mainz was a significant city in what is now Germany.

Sunderolt: A Brave Church Leader

Sunderolt became the Archbishop of Mainz in 889. This was a very important position. He was in charge of a large church region in what is now Germany. He didn't hold this role for very long. But during his time, a big challenge arose.

Facing the Vikings

During Sunderolt's time, fierce warriors called Vikings were raiding many parts of Europe. They often traveled by ship and attacked towns and cities. One of these Viking invasions happened in a place called West Francia. This area is now part of modern-day France.

The Vikings were causing a lot of trouble. Sunderolt felt it was his duty to protect his people. He decided to take action against them.

Leading an Army

Sunderolt gathered an army to fight the Vikings. These soldiers came from the Rhineland and Lotharingia. The Rhineland is a region along the Rhine River. Lotharingia was another important area in Europe at that time.

Sunderolt led these troops into battle against the Viking invaders. He showed great courage by leading his army himself.

The Battle and His Death

Sadly, Sunderolt was killed during this battle. He died on June 25, 891. A historical record called the Annales Fuldenses wrote about this event. These annals were like a diary of important events kept in a monastery.

The Annales Fuldenses mentioned that Sunderolt was perhaps too brave or "rash" in battle. After Sunderolt's death, another church leader took his place. This was Hatto I, who came from Reichenau Island.