Founders of the Hungarian Nation
The Clan of Árpád, named after its legendary leader Prince Árpád, played a central role in shaping the cultural, political, and religious landscape of Hungary. Known as the Árpád dynasty, this royal house established the foundation of the Hungarian state and reigned for over two centuries from 895 until 1301.
Destruction of the Moravian Empire (902 AD)
The Clan of Árpád marked a major victory when they destroyed the Moravian Empire of Sviatopluk and Moimir II in 902 AD. Emperor Arnulf aided them in this endeavor, marking an early example of Hungarian cooperation with other European powers.
Notorious Raiders (10th Century)
In the 10th Century, the Magyar horsemen, connected with the Árpád dynasty, were renowned for their raiding and pillaging, which extended as far as Burgundy and Aquitaine, Naples, and even the shores of the Bosphorus.
Defeat at Lechfeld (955 AD)
The turning point for the clan was the defeat at Lechfeld, near Augsburg, by the German King Otto I the Great in 955 AD. The defeat and subsequent execution of their leaders ended the Hungarian raids and catalyzed the process of settling down and building a structured society.
Reign of Geza (972-997 AD)
The reign of Geza, a great-grandson of Árpád, brought the first signs of Christian influence in Hungary. Geza was baptized, and Bruno, a monk from Saint Gall, converted the country to Christianity at Geza’s request.
Reign of Stephen I (997-1039 AD)
Vajk, Geza’s son, was baptized as István (Stephen) and ascended to the throne as Stephen I. He continued his father’s work in spreading Christianity and is considered the real founder of Hungary.
Coronation of Stephen I (January 1, 1001)
The 11th Century marked a significant milestone in Hungarian history with the coronation of Stephen I in Esztergom Basilica. Stephen I’s rule established the precedent for the Christian Kingdom of Hungary that would endure for centuries.
Schism of 1054
The schism of 1054, which led to the final separation of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches, deeply influenced Hungary, shaping its religious, cultural, and political landscape.
Reign of Laszlo I (1077-1095)
After intermittent quarrels over the succession, the reign of Laszlo I (St Ladislaa) began, strengthening Hungary’s international status.
Reign of Kalman (Coloman) the Bibliophile (1095-1116)
Under the reign of Kalman (Coloman), the Bibliophile, the Hungarians extended their influence, conquering Croatia-Slavonia and the center of Bosnia. This expansion marked a significant period of growth for the Hungarian kingdom.
Reign of Geza II (1141-1162) and Bela III (1172-1196)
The reigns of Geza II and Bela III saw the Kingdom of Hungary solidify its position as a powerful entity in Europe, even playing host to the King of France, Louis VII, and the German emperor, Conrad III, during the Second Crusade.