The House of Holstein-Gottorp was a noble family that originated in the 12th century in what is now northern Germany. It was a branch of the larger House of Holstein, which played a significant role in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire and Scandinavia. The family produced several notable rulers, including kings and dukes, and was influential in the regions of Schleswig and Holstein. In the 17th century, the house became linked to the Russian Empire through the marriage of Peter the Great to a Holstein-Gottorp princess. This connection led to the establishment of the House of Romanov as the ruling dynasty in Russia. The family's legacy continues to be recognized in European history, particularly in relation to the royal families of Denmark and Sweden.