Our focus for the Holy Roman Empire spans from the reign of Otto the Great to the 12th century under Frederick Barbarossa. The empire was a vast network of duchies and kingdoms, primarily in present-day Germany, each contributing unique strengths to its power.

Considered the successor to the ancient Roman Empire, whose tradition in Western Europe had waned in the fifth century, the Holy Roman Empire was revived by Charlemagne in 800. With a stronger Christian identity, it was also known as Imperium Christianum (The Christian Empire), and its ruler was viewed as the leader of Western Christendom. After Charlemagne’s death, his empire quickly declined. When Otto the Great restored imperial authority in 962, it became largely limited to German lands and northern Italy, with the popes in Rome retaining the right to crown the emperor.

The empire’s armies emphasized armored infantry and cavalry, inspired by ancient Roman tactics. While slower than the swift horse archers of the steppe, these forces were exceptionally resilient. The empire was also home to the Teutonic Order, a renowned religious military order formed during the Crusades, blending faith with martial prowess. Together, its duchies and military orders created a powerful force, securing the Holy Roman Empire’s place as a major presence in medieval Europe.