# Saxon Wars Begin (772)

URL: https://germany-history.com/timeline/772-saxon-wars-begin
Location: Saxony
Categories: battle

In 772 Charlemagne attacked the pagan Saxons and destroyed their sacred Irminsul pillar. The wars lasted over thirty years, marked by repeated rebellions led by Widukind. Saxony was finally incorporated into the Frankish realm and Christianised by 804.

## Why it matters
The conquest integrated northern Germany into the Frankish Christian world.

Ruler at the time: [Charlemagne](https://germany-history.com/rulers/charlemagne)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia – Saxon Wars](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saxon_Wars)
- [Wikipedia – Irminsul](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irminsul)