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Simon of Kéza (Hungarian:Kézai Simon) was the most famous Hungarian chronicler of the 13th century. He was a priest in the royal court of kingLadislaus IV of Hungary.
In 1270–1271, bearing the title "master" (magister), Simon was part of a diplomatic mission led bySixtus of Esztergom.Andrew of Hungary was also a part of this mission. Sent by KingStephen V of Hungary to congratulate KingCharles I of Sicily on the latter's return from theEighth Crusade, the delegation travelled viaNaples toCatona andMessina in December and January, then back with Charles toRome in February.[1]
His most important work isGesta Hunnorum et Hungarorum, written inLatin around 1282, in which he gives a vivid description of the history of theHuns and theHungarians (whom he considered relatives), from the legendary beginnings until the contemporary period. As a personal secretary of the king, he worked in the royal archives and collected his material from older chronicles conserved there.
The chronicle was first published in print in 1782 inBuda. In the 19th century it was translated intoHungarian and became a popular work which helped the development of national consciousness.
