Free Imperial City of Metz

Origins

The citizens of Metz gradually took power from their bishops during the 12th century, and by the late 12th century the city governed itself under the emperor's protection, outside the Prince-Bishopric of Metz. A master-échevin elected each year headed the city government from 1180.

Rule and society

Metz was run by the paraiges, a handful of patrician family associations that monopolised offices. Its merchants and bankers lent money to princes across the region, and the city controlled a sizable rural territory. Metz fought the dukes of Lorraine and withstood a siege by Charles VII and René of Anjou in 1444.

Decline and legacy

In 1552 Henry II of France occupied Metz under the Treaty of Chambord with German Protestant princes. Charles V besieged it in the winter of 1552–1553 but Francis of Guise held it. Metz became French, which the Peace of Westphalia confirmed in 1648.