Principality of Koknese: Map & History
The Principality of Koknese was a small vassal state of the Principality of Polotsk on the right bank of the Daugava River in ancient Livonia during the Middle Ages.
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The Principality of Koknese was a small vassal state of the Principality of Polotsk on the right bank of the Daugava River in ancient Livonia during the Middle Ages.
Principality of Koknese in Depth
History
At the beginning of the 13th century, when the crusading Livonian Brothers of the Sword led by bishop Albert of Riga began to occupy the shores of the Gulf of Riga, the Eastern Orthodox prince Vetseke ruled the fortress of Koknese some 100 km upstream.
According to old sources, Vetseke gave half of his land to Albert of Riga in 1205 in return for protection against the Duchy of Samogitia. During one of their raids he was captured by the Livonians but was released by order of the bishop. When the bishop left for Germany Vetseke rebelled, killed all the Germans in Koknese and called on Polotsk for support. The bishop and his army quickly returned and Vetseke burned his castle and fled to Novgorod.
Sections adapted from Wikipedia: Principality of Koknese (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Principality of Koknese: Key Facts
| Capital | Koknese |
|---|---|
| Official languages | Latgalian, Selonian, Semigallian |
| Form of government | monarchy |
| Founded | 1180s |
| Dissolved | 1206 |
Facts from Wikidata Q2502248 (CC0).
Principality of Koknese Map Over Time
Dated world maps on which Principality of Koknese appears, with the other states of the time.
Principality of Koknese Timeline
Key historical inflections from foundation to peak territorial expansion
Expansion to peak recorded area of 2,288 km² in 1208 CE.
Principality of Koknese: Frequently Asked Questions
When did Principality of Koknese exist?
Principality of Koknese is dated to 1111 CE – 1209 CE, in the High & Late Middle Ages era.
What was the capital of Principality of Koknese?
The capital of Principality of Koknese was Koknese Castle.
How large was Principality of Koknese at its peak?
At its peak in 1208 AD Principality of Koknese covered about 2,288 km².
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