What is agnes of waiblingen?

Agnes of Waiblingen (1072/73 – 24 September 1143) was a German noblewoman who became empress of the Holy Roman Empire as the wife of Emperor Henry IV. She was born to Rudolf of Rheinfelden, Duke of Swabia, and his wife Adelaide of Savoy, and was sister to Bertha of Swabia, who was married to Emperor Henry IV's rival, Duke Welf I of Bavaria.

Agnes married Henry IV in 1086 when she was 13 years old. They had four children together, including Henry V, who succeeded his father as emperor. Agnes was known for her political influence over her husband, who often consulted her on matters of state. She was also involved in charitable works, including founding several monasteries and churches.

In 1105, after a conflict between Henry IV and Pope Paschal II, Agnes led a delegation to Rome to negotiate a reconciliation. She was successful in securing a compromise, but the peace was short-lived, and tensions between the pope and the emperor continued.

After Henry IV's death in 1106, Agnes became regent for her young son Henry V. She was an able ruler and succeeded in securing her son's position as emperor. However, her influence waned as Henry V grew older and became more independent.

Agnes retired from public life in the 1120s and spent her remaining years in prayer and charitable works. She died in 1143 and was buried in the Speyer Cathedral alongside her husband. Agnes is remembered as an influential and capable woman who played an important role in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire.