King Otto III was a Holy Roman Emperor who reigned from 996 to 1002. Born in 980, he was the son of Emperor Otto II and Theophanu, a Byzantine princess. Otto III became emperor at a young age after his father's death and was known for his efforts to strengthen the empire and promote learning and culture. During his reign, Otto III sought to revive the glory of the Roman Empire and foster connections with the Byzantine Empire. He was a patron of the arts and education, establishing a court that attracted scholars and artists. His reign, however, was marked by political challenges and ended with his untimely death at the age of 21.