Medieval Germany, spanning roughly from the 5th to the late 15th century, was characterized by a fragmented political landscape. The region was divided into numerous principalities, duchies, and free cities, often ruled by local lords. The Holy Roman Empire played a central role, with emperors attempting to unify these territories under a single authority, though their power was frequently challenged by regional rulers. During this period, Germanic tribes settled in the area, and the influence of the Catholic Church grew significantly. Trade flourished in cities like Nuremberg and Cologne, while cultural developments included the rise of Gothic architecture and the Minnesang tradition of poetry and music.