660 years ago today: the crowning glory of Charles IV in Arles

660 years ago today: the crowning glory of Charles IV in Arles

Wien, Österreich - On June 4, 2025, we look back on a day that flips up some interesting booklet in history. Did you know that Karl IV. 1365 was crowned King of Burgundy in Arles? We take this key date as an opportunity to shed more light on the important ruler, which not only shaped Bohemia's history, but also had profound effects on the Holy Roman Empire. SN.AT reports that Karl IV was born in Prague as Wenzel (Václav) and the heir to Johann von Luxemburg.

Karl IV was a man of many talents. He received his training in Paris, where he was taught by influential personalities such as Pierre Roger, later Pope Clemens VI. His multilingualism - he spoke fluent Latin, Czech, German, French and Italian - testifies to his extensive educational horizon. wikipedia mentioned that Karl gained military experiences in Italy in his early career.

a pioneer for the educational system

A large part of Karl's legacy is undoubtedly the foundation of the Charles University in Prague in 1348, which is the first university in Eastern Central Europe. In a period that is considered the golden age of Bohemia, Karl promoted the cultural and intellectual development of his homeland and made Prague a center of knowledge. As the website reports on Charles IV. , the Gothic St. Veitsdom was built under its rule and the Karlsbrücke was built in Prague, two outstanding buildings that today shape the cityscape.

But not everything was glorious. During his rule, there were also dark chapters, such as the Jewish pogroms that took place in his time and the criticism of his person. He was known for his religious piety, and yet he remained ambivalent in a few moments of history.

political strategies and conflicts

Karl IV knew how to forge political alliances. He secured power in several marriage allisons. In addition, he issued the golden bull from 1356, a decisive document for regulating the election of the royal in the Holy Roman Empire. His challenges were also the conflict with Casimir III. of Poland and Louis I of Hungary, who finally led to the Annexion of Brandenburg in 1373. As many historians emphasize, his rule was a significant change in the political structure in Central Europe.

When we pause today, on June 4, we remember not only the historical milestones of the day, but also how Karl IV has decisively shaped the future of Bohemia and the Holy Roman Empire. A truly charismatic ruler, whose life's work is still in the news sphere and history.

In the context of other historical events, we could also mention the day of the first direct rail traffic between Vienna and Moscow in 1956. This uninterrupted travel current brought people and cultures closer together and is another chapter in the history of the connection between East and West. SN.AT offers further information for rail traffic and its meaning.