2021-02-03 Wed

Coloman is also known as the Book Lover or the Bookish was King of Hungary from 1095 and King of Croatia from 1097 until his death. He pursued expansionist policies and stabilized and improved the internal order of Hungary.

In the year of Coloman's coronation, at least five large groups of crusaders arrived in Hungary on their way to the Holy Land. He invaded Croatia in 1097, defeating its last native king Petar Svacic. Consequently, he was crowned king of Croatia in 1102.

It was as a legislator and administrator, however, that Coloman was greatest. He was not only one of the most learned sovereigns of the early Middle Ages (hence his byname) but was also one of the most statesmanlike. Under him, the feudal system was consolidated in Hungary, and strict but just laws were passed to preserve the state, the church, the central government, and private property and to strengthen the economic and military position of Hungary. He is noted particularly for enacting a law forbidding trials of witches, whose existence he denied.

Coins minted during his reign were smaller than those issued in his predecessor's reign to prevent the cutting down of their smooth edge. Coinage in Hungary followed the pattern established by Coloman's small denars throughout the 12th century. His coins depicted the cross on it’s both sides.

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