Denis, Bishop of Győr

Denis was called "frater" ("friar") in a document from 1270, thus he belonged to one of the religious orders (possibly Benedictines or Cistercians).[1] He was made Bishop of Győr in 1270, not long before the death of Béla IV of Hungary, but it is possible that he already held the office from the previous year.[2] He was a confidant of Stephen V of Hungary, who confirmed and transcribed several donations to the Diocese of Győr during his short reign.[3] In 1271, Stephen V also granted the "right of Fehérvár" to Győr, i.e. promoted to the status of free royal town.[4]

After the death of Stephen V, the Kingdom of Hungary fell into anarchy, when many baronial groups fought for the supreme power during the nominal rule of the minor Ladislaus IV of Hungary. Under such circumstances, the Diocese of Győr was constantly threatened by the Austrian troops of Ottokar II of Bohemia. Taking advantage of chaotic situation in Hungary, Ottokar's army invaded the borderlands of Hungary in April 1273. The influential prelate, Job Záh arrived to the region with his army and expelled his fellow bishop Denis from the castle of Győr and made himself the captain of the fortress. The Austrians, however, besieged and took the fort. When the Hungarian royal army recovered the castle, Denis returned to the town.[5] Thereafter Denis frequently resided in the royal court beside Ladislaus IV and his faction.[6] Following the skirmish, Denis negotiated with Ottokar over a conclusion of peace.[7]

Denis attended the Synod of Buda in September 1279, convened by the papal legate Philip, Bishop of Fermo.[7] Denis served as bishop at least until 1285, when he was last mentioned by contemporary records. His immediate successor, Andrew first appeared in this capacity only in 1290 or 1291.[2]