Brunhild
queen|543-613 AD|Metz
Brunhild (c. 543-613) was a Visigothic princess, daughter of King Athanagild of Spain, who became one of the most formidable political figures of Merovingian Gaul. Married to King Sigibert I of Austrasia, she ruled as queen and later as regent for her son, grandsons, and great-grandsons across nearly four decades, locking herself in a generations-long blood feud with her sister-in-law Fredegund of Neustria after the murder of her sister Galswintha. A patron of the Church who corresponded directly with Pope Gregory the Great, she also figures prominently in the Epistulae Austrasicae, the diplomatic letter collection of the Austrasian court. Her dominance ended in 613 when she was captured by Chlothar II, paraded in humiliation, and executed by being torn apart by horses.
4
Letters sent
3
Letters received
7
Total letters
4
Correspondents
Top correspondents
All letters (7)
→epistulae austrasicae #15←epistulae austrasicae #16→epistulae austrasicae #17←gregory great #9164→epistulae merowingici #10→epistulae merowingici #11←gregory great #9212
To Emperor Mauricec. 585 AD
I address you in my own name, as the mother of King Childebert and as the guardian of his kingdom during the years...
From Emperor Mauricec. 586 AD
Maurice, to our most noble and beloved daughter Queen Brunhild, greetings.
To Austrasian Courtc. 588 AD
From Queen Brunhild to our faithful servants and administrators,
From Gregory the Great (Wisigothic)c. 595 AD
A man named Hilarius is in need of the protection that only someone in your position can provide.
To Pope Gregory the Greatc. 596 AD
Brunhild, queen, to the most blessed and holy Pope Gregory.
To Pope Gregory the Greatc. 601 AD
The reports reaching us about the mission to Britain are followed here with great interest.
From Gregory the Great (Wisigothic)c. 602 AD
Most serene Queen, the bearer of this letter is Hilarius, whom I send to you with confidence in your continued...