Merovingian kings were largely stationary; local lords came to meet them at their palace on the banks of the Seine.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Maybe

Answer: (B)

The pattern of Merovingian rule was one of mobility and personal networks, not a stationary, single-hall monarchy. Merovingian kings did not preach a fixed, unchanging seat of power; their court moved between different royal residences in Gaul—Soissons, perhaps Paris at times, and other centers—so the king could govern, campaign, and receive nobles across the realm. Local lords played a crucial role, and nobles would gather to present themselves to the king wherever he happened to be, rather than there being one enduring palace on the banks of the Seine that defined royal authority. In short, royal power was portable and relational, anchored in shifting courts and aristocratic networks rather than in a single, permanent royal palace.