Pemyslid

The Pemyslid dynasty (Czech: Přemyslovci; Latin: Premyslidae) was a medieval ruling house of Bohemia, which held power from the late 9th century until 1306. The name derives from the legendary founder Přemysl the Ploughman, and the dynasty’s early rulers established the Přemyslid state around the region of Bohemia, centered on Prague.

Over the centuries, the Přemyslids expanded their domain and consolidated authority in the Czech lands within the framework of the Holy Roman Empire. Vratislav II is traditionally considered the first Bohemian ruler to be crowned King of Bohemia, in 1085, marking the elevation of the realm to a royal status. Notable members of the dynasty include Saint Wenceslaus I (Wenceslas I), Boleslaus II the Pious, and later kings such as Wenceslas II and Wenceslas III. Ottokar II the Great expanded Bohemian influence further, acquiring territories such as Austria, Styria, Carinthia, and Carniola, making Bohemia a major continental power in the 13th century.

The dynasty’s decline began after the death of Ottokar II and culminated with the death of Wenceslas III in 1306, who died without an heir. With the extinction of the male line, the Bohemian crown passed to the House of Luxembourg, ending Přemyslid rule in its traditional male line. The Pemyslid legacy shaped the political, cultural, and ecclesiastical development of the Czech lands, including Prague’s emergence as a central political center in Central Europe.