When we look back to medieval Europe, there are a handful legendary figures who stand out above the rest. Richard the Lionheart. Charlemagne. El Cid. And Frederick Barbarossa. A powerful emperor, focused crusader, and stubborn supporter in the middle of a papal schism, Barbarossa certainly made waves in the twelfth century, and left a lasting impression. This week, Danièle speaks with Graham Loud about how Barbarossa came to power, how he managed to reign supreme in both Germany and Italy despite some bumps along the way, and why he’s sometimes revered as a once and future king in Germany.

Graham Loud is Professor Emeritus of Medieval History at the University of Leeds, where his research focuses on the politics of Europe during the High Middle Ages. His new book is Frederick Barbarossa, published by Reaktion Books.

The creator and host of The Medieval Podcast is Danièle Cybulskie. Click here to visit her website or follow her on BlueSky @5minmedievalist.bsky.social

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Top Image: St. Gallen, Kantonsbibliothek, Vadianische Sammlung, VadSlg Ms. 321, S.