The upper Lavanttal came to Bamberg probably in 1007.
The castle of Wolfsberg (Wolfsperch) is first named in 1178; the planned market below it is laid out only about 1220-1230 under Bishop Ekbert, and Wolfsberg becomes a town later (walled by 1289, town rights 1331). Bamberg also holds St. Leonhard higher up the valley and Griffen between the Lavanttal and Völkermarkt (both on Bamberg's list of Carinthian holdings in 1328; their 1200 status is not pinned).
The duke's high court for the valley sat at Hartneidstein, a source of centuries of quarrels; Bamberg got high justice only in 1449.
Who he is
- Name
- Bishop Timo of Bamberg; local officers not pinned
- Title
- Bishop of Bamberg (lord)
- Since
- probably 1007
- Born
- not pinned
- Family
- Church lordship.
- Confidence
- medium
German Wikipedia (Wolfsberg (Kärnten)).
Overlord
The bishop of Bamberg holds of the Empire.
What it holds
- Wolfsberg castle (1178); no market yet.
- The upper Lavanttal with St. Leonhard (not pinned for 1200).
- Griffen castle (on Bamberg's list in 1328; 1200 not pinned).
How it was acquired
Probably with the endowment of 1007.
Allies and rivals
Neighbours: the duke's advocacy of St. Paul in the lower valley; Salzburg's St. Andrä; the Heunburg counts with lands in the valley.
How things stand that morning
Bamberg's castle and valley; the duke keeps high justice through his court.
Wealth
The valley's rents; later iron.
Military
Wolfsberg castle.
Threats
- The duke's court and claims in the valley.
Places of note
- Wolfsberg castle: First named 1178.
- Griffen: Bamberg castle (1200 status not pinned).
Where the sources disagree
Evidence: Wolfsberg's dates are firm; the extent of the Bamberg valley and Griffen in 1200 are inferred.
On the map: The valley is drawn as Bamberg's on the strength of the later Vizedom lands.
Sources and studies
Last revised 4 November 2026. Published 4 November 2026. Suggest a correction on the OMNIA Discord.