1. Overview
Judith of Thuringia (Judita DurynskáCzech), born around 1135, was a distinguished member of the Ludovingians dynasty who became Queen consort of Bohemia from 1158 to 1172, as the second wife of King Vladislaus II of Bohemia. She was only the second queen in Bohemia's history to hold this title, following Świętosława of Poland. Renowned for her intelligence and beauty, Judith was deeply educated in Latin and politics, actively participating in court affairs and even serving as a regent during her husband's absences. Her most significant contributions include her extensive patronage, notably financing the construction of the Judith Bridge in Prague, one of Central Europe's earliest stone bridges, and establishing the Benedictine monastery in Teplice. Her influence extended to the succession of her son, Ottokar I of Bohemia, who later became the first hereditary King of Bohemia.
2. Early Life and Family
Judith was born around 1135 as the daughter of Louis I, Landgrave of Thuringia, and Hedwig of Gudensberg. She was a member of the influential Ludovingians dynasty. Her upbringing took place at the Thuringian court, specifically at Wartburg Castle, which was a significant cultural and political center of the time. She had a sister named Bertha of Lorraine.
3. Marriage and Queenship
In 1153, Judith was married to Vladislaus II of Bohemia, then the Duke of Bohemia. This marriage occurred three years after the death of Vladislaus's first wife, Gertrude of Babenberg. Judith was approximately 18 years old at the time of her wedding, while Vladislaus was considerably older, by 15 to 20 years. A key political motivation behind this union was Judith's familial connection to the new German King, Frederick Barbarossa. She was related to him through her brother, Landgrave Louis II, Landgrave of Thuringia, and his wife, Judith of Hohenstaufen. This connection strengthened Vladislaus's ties to the Holy Roman Empire.
Upon Vladislaus's coronation as King of Bohemia in 1158, a title he obtained from Emperor Frederick, Judith officially became Queen consort. Although her coronation itself is not explicitly documented in historical records, contemporary chronicles consistently referred to her as "Queen Judith," indicating her recognized status and importance.
3.1. Education and Intellect
Judith was highly regarded by her contemporaries for her sharp mind and refined education. The chronicler Vincent, a canon of Prague, described her as possessing great beauty and intellect, specifically noting her proficiency in Latin and her deep understanding of political affairs. Her intellectual capabilities distinguished her among the royal consorts of her era.
3.2. Political Role and Regency
Beyond her formal title, Judith played an active and significant role in the political life of the Bohemian court. She frequently deputized for Vladislaus in his absence, effectively acting as a regent and managing state affairs. Her political influence was considerable, extending to important dynastic matters. Notably, she is believed to have been instrumental in choosing the name for her first son, Přemysl Ottokar, naming him after the legendary founder of the Přemyslid dynasty. This choice underscored the legitimacy and continuity of the dynasty, aligning with established medieval traditions where mothers often held the prerogative in naming their children.
4. Major Contributions and Patronage
Judith's reign was marked by significant contributions to public works and the establishment of religious institutions, demonstrating her commitment to the development and spiritual life of Bohemia.
4.1. Judith Bridge
One of Judith's most renowned contributions was her financing of the first stone bridge in Prague across the Vltava River. Construction of this bridge began around 1160, on the very site where the famous Charles Bridge stands today. The Judith Bridge was a groundbreaking engineering feat for its time, being one of the first stone bridges in Central Europe. In honor of her pivotal role in its construction and funding, the bridge was named the Judith Bridge (Juditin mostCzech).
Tragically, a major flood in 1342 destroyed much of the original structure. However, remnants of some pillars and arches are still visible, serving as a testament to its historical significance. Additionally, a preserved bridge tower, known as the Judith Tower (Juditina věžCzech), remains standing on the Malá Strana bank of the Vltava, providing a tangible link to her legacy.
4.2. Founding of Teplice Monastery
Around 1164, Judith founded a Benedictine monastery in Teplice. This establishment was not only a significant religious foundation but also played a role in her later life. It would eventually become the place where her remains were discovered, indicating a lasting connection to the institution she helped establish.
5. Children
Judith and Vladislaus II had three children:
- Ottokar (born around 1155 - died 1230), who served as Duke of Bohemia in 1192-1193 and again from 1197. He achieved significant historical importance by becoming the first hereditary King of Bohemia in 1198, laying the foundation for a lasting royal line.
- Vladislaus III (born around 1160 - died 1222), who was Duke of Bohemia in 1197 and later served as Margrave of Moravia from 1197 until his death.
- Richeza (died 1182), who married Henry I, Duke of Mödling, a younger son of Duke Henry II, Duke of Austria.
6. Later Life and Exile
Judith actively supported the inheritance claims of her son, Přemysl Ottokar, in the ongoing struggle for the Prague throne. However, Duke Vladislaus ultimately named his stepbrother, Frederick, Duke of Bohemia, as his successor. When Vladislaus II finally abdicated in 1172, Judith followed him into exile in Thuringia, her homeland. Vladislaus died two years later at Meerane Castle.
7. Death
The exact place of Judith's death is not known. However, her remains were later discovered in the former Benedictine monastery of Teplice, the very institution she had founded around 1164. According to the historian Emanuel Vlček, Judith died around 1210 at the advanced age of approximately 75 years. She lived long enough to witness the successful reign of her eldest son, Přemysl Ottokar, as King of Bohemia.
8. Legacy
Judith of Thuringia is remembered as a queen of remarkable intellect and influence. Her active participation in political affairs, her education in Latin and politics, and her role as a regent during her husband's absences highlight her significant engagement beyond the traditional duties of a consort. Her patronage of major public works, particularly the construction of the Judith Bridge in Prague, left a tangible and lasting mark on the Bohemian landscape and infrastructure. Furthermore, her establishment of the Teplice Monastery contributed to the religious and cultural life of the region. Her foresight and dedication, especially in supporting her son Ottokar's eventual succession, laid foundational elements for the future of the Bohemian kingdom. Judith's legacy as an intelligent, politically engaged, and generous queen continues to be recognized in Bohemian history.