Episcopal city and coronation site. Mainz in the Ottonian period

From 919, the Ottonians ruled the East Frankish-German Empire for around a century. Mainz became increasingly powerful during this time. The archbishops of Mainz were among the ecclesiastical and political leaders of the empire. They held high offices in the royal administration.

Since Charlemagne, the archbishops of Mainz ruled over the largest ecclesiastical province. It stretched from the diocese of Verden in the north, through Halberstadt and Eichstädt in the east, to Constance and Chur in the south. Numerous sovereign stays are documented. Mainz prospered politically and economically.

Caught between royal and archepiscopal rule, the Jewish community contributed to the urban development of Mainz since its beginnings in the 10th century. It helped shape the cityscape and had a far-reaching effect, even far beyond Mainz.