The "Count of Austria" refers to a historical title held by the rulers of the region of Austria before it became a duchy and later an archduchy. The title was first established in the 10th century and was associated with the control of the March of Austria, a border territory of the Holy Roman Empire. The title was held by various noble families, most notably the House of Habsburg, which played a significant role in European politics. The Counts of Austria eventually transitioned to the title of Duke and later Archduke, reflecting the growing importance of the region in European affairs.