Quick Facts
Golden Bull. Prague's builder. Emperor who made Bohemia the heart of Central Europe.
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Life Journey
Charles IV was born to John of Luxembourg and Elisabeth of Bohemia in Prague, the capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia.
Charles begins his early education, focusing on languages, literature, and courtly manners, under the guidance of his father and tutors.
Charles is sent to the French court for further education and to strengthen diplomatic ties between Bohemia and France.
Charles returns to Bohemia and is introduced to the Bohemian court, beginning his involvement in the administration of the kingdom.
Charles marries Blanche of Valois, a French noblewoman, to secure an alliance between Bohemia and France.
Charles is appointed Margrave of Moravia, a significant step in his rise to power within the Holy Roman Empire.
Charles is elected King of Bohemia, succeeding his father John of Luxembourg, who remains King of Bohemia but cedes power to Charles.
Charles is elected King of the Romans, a title that places him as the leading candidate for Holy Roman Emperor.
Charles is crowned King of the Romans in Bonn, solidifying his position as the future Holy Roman Emperor.
Charles founds the Charles University in Prague, the first university in Central Europe, enhancing educational and cultural development.
Charles is crowned Holy Roman Emperor in Rome, becoming one of the most powerful rulers in Europe.
Charles issues the Golden Bull, a fundamental constitutional document that defines the election process for Holy Roman Emperors.
Charles marries Anna of SchwΓ€gbach, a German noblewoman, after the death of his first wife, Blanche of Valois.
Charles visits Avignon to meet Pope Urban V, strengthening the relationship between the Holy Roman Empire and the Papacy.
Charles's father, John of Luxembourg, dies, and Charles assumes full control over the Kingdom of Bohemia.
Charles IV dies in Prague, leaving a legacy as one of the most significant rulers of the Holy Roman Empire and Bohemia.