Flanders

Flamingue, Flandres, Flanmesgues, Flaundrys, Flavinghe, Flavingue, Floene

Flanders is a region situated in the northern part of Belgium.

In Geoffrey, Arthur conquers it as part of his invasion of Gaul and defeat of Frollo. Arthur and his host sailed from Sandwich to war against Lucius, landing at Barflete (Barfleur) in Flanders. Later, King Holdin ruled it under Arthur. In the Vulgate Lancelot, he wrestles it from Count Aran, who ruled it under Claudas.

A knight named Bloyas came from this region.


Flanders | 0 to 700 AD

During the Roman era, the area that would become Flanders was part of the Roman province of Gallia Belgica. The Romans established cities, roads, and infrastructure, contributing to the region’s development. Towns such as Tournai (Tornacum) and Tongeren (Atuatuca Tungrorum) were Roman settlements. The Roman influence declined in the fifth century as the Western Roman Empire faced internal turmoil and external pressures.

The migration of various Germanic tribes, such as the Franks and the Saxons, into the region began in the late Roman period and continued into the early medieval period. These migrations led to the gradual assimilation of Roman and Germanic cultures.

The region came under the rule of the Frankish kingdoms, particularly the Merovingian and later Carolingian dynasties. The Frankisk rulers established local governance and introduced Christianity to the region. Towns and settlements developed around centers of power. The spread of Christianity was significant during this period. Missionaries like Saint Amandus and Saint Eligius played key roles in converting the population to Christianity. Monasteries were established, contributing to the region’s cultural and religious development.

From the late eighth century, Viking raids and incursions began to impact the coastal areas, including what is now Flanders. Viking raiders targeted towns and monasteries, causing disruptions and forcing locals to defend themselves.

During this time, the Carolingian Empire fragmented, leading to the rise of local lords and the development of feudal structures. Castles and fortifications were built as centers of power and defense.


See also
Earl of Flandrisborg | The Legend of King Arthur
Flandrisborg | The Legend of King Arthur
Flanmesgues | The Legend of King Arthur


Sources
Historia Regum Britanniae | Geoffrey of Monmouth, c. 1138
Roman de Brut | Wace, c. 1155
Vulgate Lancelot | 1215-1230
Le Morte Darthur | Sir Thomas Malory, 1469-1470