Description

Matthias Corvinus (1443–1490), also known as Matthias Hunyadi, was King of Hungary and Croatia from 1458 to 1490, ruling as Matthias I. He expanded his reign by becoming King of Bohemia in 1469 and adopting the title Duke of Austria in 1487. Son of John Hunyadi, Regent of Hungary, Matthias ascended to the throne at 14 years old with the support of his uncle Michael Szilágyi after his father's death. Despite initially ruling under his uncle's guidance, he quickly took control of the government. Matthias engaged in military campaigns against Czech mercenaries and Emperor Frederick III, ultimately signing a peace treaty with the latter in 1463. He later focused on internal affairs, introducing new taxes and facing rebellion in Transylvania in 1467. Matthias also waged war against George of Poděbrady, King of Bohemia, expanding his territories but facing resistance from the Hussite lords. He bolstered defenses against the Ottoman Empire, aiding Moldavia against Ottoman invasions and securing peace treaties with neighboring powers. Known for his patronage of arts and science, Matthias's reign marked a flourishing of culture in Hungary, earning him the epithet "Matthias the Just" and enduring popularity in folklore.

Engraver: László Szlávics Jr.