A centre of power. Mainz in the Carolingian period.

From 751, the Carolingians assumed the rule of the Frankish Empire. With the expansion of the empire to the north, east and south, the area along the Rhine finally became the centre of power. This is where Charlemagne (r. 768-814) promoted monasteries and bishoprics, built royal palaces, held court meetings and gathered his army for campaigns. Reforms of education, the church, the liturgy, law and writing emanated from Charles and his court of scholars and intellectuals.

During this time, Mainz continued to flourish. Documentation exists showing several stays of Carolingian rulers in Mainz. The city developed into a political and economic centre of the Frankish Empire. With the granting of the permanent dignity of an archbishopric under Charlemagne and the territorial expansions in the east, the ecclesiastical province of Mainz became the largest diocese and the archbishop of Mainz was one of the most powerful men in the empire.