Charlemagne’s Many Wives & Concubines

Charlemagne’s Many Wives & Concubines

From History Tea Time by Lindsay Holiday

April 28, 2026 · 30 min

About this episode

This episode explores the romantic life of Charlemagne, detailing his multiple wives and concubines and their influence on history.

Charlemagne is a central figure in European history. In the 700s he conquered a vast empire. He is considered the progenitor of the French monarchy, several Germany dynasties and more. He even forced the Pope to crown him Holy Roman Emperor. But while Charlemagne was busy converting pagans to Christianity at sword point, his love life was far from holy. The great emperor had 4 or 5 wives, the relationship statues of one has long been debated for a very cruel reason. And at least 4 concubines. Many of his romantic entanglements were going on simultaneously. And the influence these women had on imperial politics shocked clerics of the day. In total, they presented the king with 18 children. And so many heirs planted the seeds for the destruction of the Carolingian Empire. Today let’s meet Emperor Charlemagne’s many wives and concubines. Wives: Himiltrude Desiderata of the Lombards Hildegard of the Vinzgau Fastrada Luitgard Concubines: Gersuinda Madelgard Regina Ethelind Join me every Tuesday when I'm Spilling the Tea on History! Check out my Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/lindsayholiday Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091781568503…

People in this episode

Host: Lindsay Holiday

Topics covered

  • Charlemagne
  • European history
  • wives and concubines
  • Carolingian Empire
  • imperial politics
  • historical figures

Keywords

  • Charlemagne
  • wives
  • concubines
  • Carolingian Empire
  • European history
  • politics
  • children
  • Holy Roman Emperor

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