its capital was disputed between East Francia and West Francia kingdoms. In 869,Charles the Bald was crowned king of Lotharingia in Metz.
In 910, Metz became part of East Francia and subsequently of the Holy Roman Empire, granting semi-independent status. In 959, Metz was the capital of Upper Lortharingia, gradually known as Lorraine, until the 11th century. During this period, the Bishops of Metz increased their political influence. The Prince-Bishops gained their independence from the Dukes of Lorraine, making Metz their capital.
In 1096, Metz was one of the scenes of the massacres of Jews occurring during the First Crusade. A group of crusaders entered Metz and forced the important Jewish community of the city to convert to catholicism, killing 22 people who refused baptism.
A Free Imperial City and the Messin Republic
In 1189, Metz rose to the status of Free Imperial City, limiting greatly the influence of the Bishops on the city. While the Bishops left the city for Vic-sur-Seille, the Burgesses organized themselves in order to establish a republic. The Republic of Metz was organized around three legislature: the Head-Alderman representing the city, a comity of 13 aldermen acting as Lay community counsellors, and a House of Burgesses giving its opinion.Ultimately, the institutions changed to become a free oligarchic republic giving the command of the city to 21 aldermen, the Head-Alderman being elected. The Republic of Metz ruled until the 15th century and was the most prosperous period of the city, being renown as "Metz, the Rich One". Metz was then a major banking center controlled by the Jews and then the Lombards. The present-day Saint-Louis square used to accommodate back then money changers and trade fairs under its vaulted gallery and arches.
The Republic of Metz often had to fight for its freedom: in 1324, against the Dukes of Luxembourg and Lorraine, as well as, against the Archbishop of
