Verdun

Verdun was an ecclesiastical principality on the Meuse in Lorraine. Its bishops had held the title of count since 997, but by 1337 French influence was strong: from 1331 the French king controlled episcopal appointments.

War and plague reduced the diocese's population in the fourteenth century. In 1552 Henry II annexed Verdun together with Toul and Metz; the Empire recognised French possession in the Peace of Westphalia in 1648. The bishopric formed part of the French Three Bishoprics until secularisation during the Revolution.