House of Canossa

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House of Canossa
Italian: Casa Canossa
Noble house
Coat of arms of the house of Canossa.svg
Country Holy Roman Empire
Foundedc. 910 (c. 910)
Founder Sigifred of Lucca
Final ruler Matilda of Canossa
Titles
Estate(s) Canossa Castle (seat)
Deposition1115 (1115)

The House of Canossa was an Italian noble family from Lucca holding the castle of Canossa, from the early tenth to the early twelfth century.

Sigifred of Lucca built the castle at Canossa around 940. Adalbert Atto appears in Canossa in time to give refuge to Queen Adelaide when she was fleeing Berengar II and Willa in 955.

Last ruler of the dynasty was Matilda of Tuscany (c. 1046 – 1115). Her court became a refuge for many displaced persons during the turmoil of the investiture dispute and experienced a cultural boom. In 1111 Matilda was reportedly crowned Imperial Vicar and Vice-Queen of Italy by Henry V, Holy Roman Emperor. With her death, the House of Canossa became extinct in 1115.

Genealogy

Sigifredo of Lucca along with his three sons built the Castle of Canossa. He died after 940. His sons were-

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