House of Flanders


The House of Flanders—also called the Baldwins —was a medieval ruling family founded by Baldwin I Iron Arm, son-in-law of Charles the Bald.
From 1051, the House of Flanders also reigned over the County of Hainaut, with Baldwin I of Hainaut. In 1119, on the death of Baldwin VII, the House of Flanders had a series of setbacks but in 1191, the House of Flanders recovered the title of Count of Flanders with Baldwin VIII. The dynasty established the Latin Empire of Constantinople during the Fourth Crusade. It also ruled briefly the County of Namur. The House of Flanders became extinct in 1280 with the death of Margaret II.
A cadet branch, the House of Boulogne, ruled over the County of Boulogne. Members of this house joined the First Crusade, established the Kingdom of Jerusalem, and produced its first kings.

Genealogy