Conrad, Margrave of Meissen

Conrad I (c. 1097 – 5 February 1157), called Conrad the Great (German: Konrad der Große), a member of the House of Wettin, was Margrave of Meissen from 1123 and Margrave of Lusatia from 1136 until his retirement in 1156. Initially a Saxon count, he became the ruler of extensive Imperial estates in the Eastern March and the progenitor of the Saxon electors and later kings.

Conrad was a key figure in the German eastward expansion and in the consolidation of Wettin power in the region. He strengthened and expanded his territories, securing his position after overcoming early challenges from Emperor Henry V and Count Wiprecht of Groitzsch. His rule promoted the growth of commercial centres such as Leipzig and saw the foundation of Altzella Abbey, which later became a significant economic asset following the discovery of silver nearby.