The House of Babenberg was a noble family that played a significant role in the history of Austria from the 10th to the 13th centuries. They were originally counts of Babenberg in Germany and later became dukes of Austria. The family is known for establishing the foundations of the Austrian state and expanding its territories. The most notable member of the House of Babenberg was Leopold IV, who significantly contributed to the development of Vienna as a major city. The dynasty ended with the death of Frederick II in 1246, leading to a power vacuum that eventually allowed the Habsburgs to rise to prominence in Austria.