Die Wittelsbacher

Since Otto von Wittelsbach was invested with the Duchy of Bavaria in September 1180, the fortunes of the land and dynasty have been closely intertwined for 738 years. In 1214, the Palatinate came under Wittelsbach rule. Despite a fragmentation into many cadet branches, this high noble family successfully maintained its position in these two central German territories for centuries. It provided the King or Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation three times. At various times, members of the house also occupied the thrones of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Greece. The book traces the exciting history of the family from the 12th century to 1918, highlighting its ups and downs. In addition to brief introductory texts about the historical contexts, it presents 27 prominent representatives of the dynasty in short portraits.