Deep Dive
Why did Heinrich VI visit Erfurt in 1184?
Heinrich VI visited Erfurt to mediate a dispute between Ludwig III and Conrad of Wittelsbach, and to gain support for his plan to change the line of succession for the Holy Roman Emperor to a bloodline-based system.
What was the purpose of the Hofstag held in Erfurt?
The Hofstag was an informal assembly convened by Heinrich VI to resolve the dispute between Ludwig III and Conrad of Wittelsbach, and to gather support for his succession plan.
How did medieval latrines typically function?
Medieval latrines were often alcoves off banquet rooms, with wooden seats and holes directing waste into masonry basins. Some had external pipes for waste disposal, while others had cesspools beneath the floors.
What caused the Erfurt latrine disaster?
The Erfurt latrine disaster occurred when the floor above a cesspool collapsed due to the weight of many attendees at the Hofstag, sending them into the cesspool below.
How many people died in the Erfurt latrine disaster?
Between 60 and 100 people, mostly nobles, died in the disaster. However, it is estimated that hundreds of people in total may have perished.
Why is Heinrich VI's survival considered significant?
Heinrich VI's survival is significant because he went on to become the Holy Roman Emperor, king of Burgundy, Italy, and Sicily, and feudal overlord of several other regions, including England.
What is the current status of the Erfurt latrine disaster story?
The Erfurt latrine disaster is widely discussed in historical contexts, but there is no primary source reference for it, leading to speculation about its authenticity.
- Dispute between Ludwig III and Conrad of Wittelsbach.
- King Heinrich VI mediated the dispute in Erfurt.
- Heinrich's campaign to change the line of succession for the Holy Roman Emperor.
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