Germany had many famous knights in its history. Some belonged to orders such as the Teutonic Order of Knights, others were infamous for their brutality or constant feuds. Some of the most famous German knights can be found here.
Famous German Knights
Tannhäuser
Tannhäuser was a German knight and poet. He is particularly well known for his ‘Minnelieder’, a style of medieval love songs. The real-life Tannhäuser is often confused with the mythical Tannhäuser of 16th century folklore, who was immortalised by Richard Wagner in the opera of the same name.
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Georg von Frundsberg
Georg von Frundsberg was a German knight and leader of the Landsknechte, fighting for the Holy Roman Empire and particularly the Habsburg House. During his time, he was known for his outstanding strategic capabilities.
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Götz von Berlichingen
Götz von Berlichingen was born in 1480 in modern Baden-Württemberg. He became a famous German Imperial Knight, but also impressed as a poet and mercenary. He was also known as Götz of the Iron Hand, due to the prothesis he wore in later life. Götz von Berlichingen fought in the armies of the Holy Roman…
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Ulrich von Hutten
Ulrich von Hutten, born in 1488 in Steckelberg Castle in Hesse, was a German knight and scholar who became a follower of Martin Luther and was particularly well known for his writings, which were often satirical and critical of the Catholic Church, and his close affiliation with Franz von Sickingen. Born the eldest son of…
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Franz von Sickingen
Franz von Sickingen was one of the most important knights of the German reformation and led together with Ulrich von Hutten the knights revolt, as well as becoming famous for his ideals. He was born near Bad Kreuznach and earned renown in emperor Maximilian’s I campaign against Venice in 1508. It was this campaign that…
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Heinrich von Bülow
Heinrich von Bülow, also known as Grotekop (Big Head) was a 14th century knight and came to fame as a supporter of Prince Albrecht II of Mecklenburg and Sweden. The name Grotekop most likely refers to his ancestral home at Castle Preensberg, 10km east of Wismar, which was close to the main trade routes towards…
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Knights and Castles 