Successively Duke of Bavaria, King of Germany and Emperor, Henry II devoted himself to the spread of religion by rebuilding churches and founding monasteries. Until the end of his life he displayed on the throne the virtues of a great saint. Together with his wife, St. Cunegunda, whose dowry he mortgaged for the purpose, he founded the bishopric of Bamberg and at his death in 1024 was buried in the cathedral there; his holy wife was laid by his side fifteen years later.