Charlemagne’s forces destroyed the Avar Ring in 796. The Ring was the fortified royal residence or central stronghold of the Avar Khaganate, located somewhere in the Pannonian basin between the Danube and Tisza rivers.
The victory came after several Frankish campaigns. Charlemagne personally led a major invasion in 791, but logistical problems and an equine epidemic forced the army to withdraw. In 795 or 796, Duke Eric of Friuli and the Slavic commander Woynimir raided the Avar center and seized much of its accumulated treasure. A larger expedition in 796, led by Charlemagne’s son Pippin of Italy, completed the assault and destroyed the Ring.
The conquest shattered Avar political and military power, although Avar communities survived and some leaders submitted to Frankish authority. Medieval accounts emphasized the enormous booty: Frankish sources claimed that so much gold and treasure was transported west that numerous ox-drawn wagons were required.