Fulco (bishop of Estonia)

Fulco (also known as Fulk; died 1219) was a Cistercian monk and the first Bishop of Estonia. Appointed by Albert of Riga in 1211 or 1212, he played a significant role in the early phases of the Livonian Crusade and the Christianization of Estonia.

Prior to his appointment, Fulco was likely associated with the Cistercian monastery of Dünamünde (Daugavgrīva). As Bishop of Estonia, his responsibilities centered around consolidating Christian influence and establishing a church structure in the newly conquered territories. His diocese primarily encompassed areas in what is now northern Estonia.

He faced considerable challenges, including resistance from the indigenous Estonian population who were reluctant to abandon their traditional pagan beliefs and practices. The region was also characterized by ongoing political instability and military conflicts between various factions, including German crusaders, Danish interests, and different Estonian tribes.

Fulco died in 1219, likely killed during an Estonian raid on Lindanise (present-day Tallinn). He was succeeded as Bishop of Estonia by Hermann von Buxhövden. His brief tenure was crucial in establishing the foundations of Christianity in Estonia and paving the way for further expansion of the Livonian Crusades.