The Red-Bearded King: A Medieval Legend

Equally honorable, brave, and noble was King Frederick I, called "Barbarossa" for his prominent red beard. He ruled twelfth century Germany when it was a feudal kingdom, a time of darkness and intrigue. As Arthur sought the Holy Grail, Frederick sought the Holy Lance, the spear that pierced Christ's side as he hung on the cross. A chivalrous king who thirsted for justice, Frederick confronted wild beasts, defeated evil barons, razed his enemy's castles, and crusaded to the Holy Land. Guided by the Rhine-maiden prophetess, Lorelei, he achieved greatness while earning the love of his people.

Like Arthur's Knights of the Round Table, Frederick surrounded himself with stout-hearted warriors. The greatest was the courageous Duke of Saxony, Henry the Lion. Yet, like all men who achieve glory, Frederick faced jealously and betrayal. In the year 1190, rumors sang the King's demise in the torrents of a far off river. But soon, legends arose that Frederick merely sleeps in a cave deep in the Kyffhauser Mountains. His return awaits until the ravens cease to fly.