Philip II of France

Philip II of France, also known as Philip Augustus, reigned from 1180 to 1223. He was a significant medieval king who expanded French territory and consolidated royal power. Notably, he led the French army to victory against the English king Richard the Lionheart during the Third Crusade and regained large parts of France. Philip's administration improved governance, establishing a strong central authority, and he is credited with initiating the construction of the iconic Notre-Dame de Paris. His reign marked a pivotal shift in France's medieval history, laying the foundations for the future growth of the French state.