The term 'HOLY ROMAN EMPIRE' refers to a complex political entity that existed in Central Europe from 962 to 1806. It was a multi-ethnic conglomerate of territories in Western and Central Europe, which was ruled by the Germanic HOLY ROMAN Emperor. The EMPIRE was characterized by its fragmented political structure, with the emperor at its head, and the various states and territories within it having varying degrees of autonomy. The EMPIRE was also known for its strong religious influence, as it was the center of the Catholic Church in Europe during its existence.