Rudolf IV the Founder: Forging Austria's Future

Before the Habsburgs dominated Europe, a young duke named Rudolf IV forged a bold vision for Austria. In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore how the 14th-century ruler known as 'the Founder' created the Privilegium Maius, a cunning forgery that elevated Austria's status, founded the University of Vienna, and built St. Stephen's Cathedral's iconic south tower. They discuss his rivalry with Emperor Charles IV, his savvy use of Habsburg propaganda, and how his short reign (1358–1365) shaped Austrian identity for centuries. Learn about the Golden Bull, the Habsburg 'claim to rule,' and how Rudolf's death at 26 left a legacy that would define a dynasty. #RudolfIV #PrivilegiumMaius #UniversityOfVienna #StStephensCathedral #Habsburgs #GoldenBull #CharlesIV #Forger #MedievalAustria #14thCentury #HabsburgPropaganda #Founder #AustrianHistory #HolyRomanEmpire #Stephansdom #DuchyOfAustria #History #FexingoHistory Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo