HabsburgNormandy

Habsburg-Normandy, also known as the House of Anjou, was a royal dynasty that ruled the Kingdom of Sicily and the County of Anjou in France from the 13th to the 15th century. The dynasty was founded by Charles I of Anjou, who was the son of King Louis VIII of France and Blanche of Castile. Charles I married Beatrice, the daughter of King Henry III of England, and their son, Charles II, became King of Sicily in 1266.

The House of Anjou is notable for its significant contributions to the political and cultural landscape of Europe. Charles II of Anjou, also known as Charles I of Sicily, was a prominent figure in the medieval period. He was known for his military campaigns, including the conquest of the Kingdom of Naples in 1284, which significantly expanded the territory under his control. His reign also saw the construction of the Castel del Monte in Apulia, a remarkable example of Gothic architecture.

The dynasty's rule in Sicily was marked by a period of relative stability and prosperity, known as the Sicilian Vespers. However, the House of Anjou faced challenges, including internal conflicts and external threats. The dynasty's rule in Sicily ended in 1282 when Charles II was deposed by his son, Peter III of Aragon. The House of Anjou continued to rule the County of Anjou in France until the 15th century, when it merged with the House of Valois.

The Habsburg-Normandy dynasty had a lasting impact on the political and cultural history of Europe. Their rule in Sicily and Anjou brought significant changes to the region, including the development of Gothic architecture and the establishment of a more centralized government. The dynasty's legacy can still be seen in the cultural and architectural heritage of the regions they ruled.