Missus dominicus

The Latin term denoted missus in the Middle Ages generally a representative of a great in their own area. The missi dominici / royal messengers (also is missi fiscales, regales missi, missi regis) make it the most important group dar.

Even under the early Carolingians begins a regular sending of missi dominici. They were chosen from the royal vassals. Their main task was to control the royal property. She also had several other tasks:

• Function as links between the spiritual and secular magnates
• Monitoring and implementation of royal orders
• Correction of deficiencies
• Message in case of infringement

In the year 802, it comes under Charlemagne to a reorganization of the institution of the king messengers. This was not a social change, ie the displacement of poorer vassals by the more powerful followers of Charles, because the King's Commissioners have always had the elite of the empire belongs (see research article by J. Hannig ). The reform Charles was referring rather to the establishment of Missatsbezirken in the core zones of Frankish power, have been linked to already existing administrative districts such as counties or cities. The incumbent employed there received by the ruler special powers.

The system proved to be well under Charlemagne. Soon, however, came through ever greater self-interests of the nobility difficulties. This resulted in the 9th century to the expiry of the system, in the 10th century it has disappeared.