The name "Byzantium", as applied to the empire which developed around the city of Constantinople, is a misnomer. However, there appears to be no other expression which should more appropriately be used. Cyril Mango has described the word as a "term of convenience when it is not a term of inconvenience", emphasising that it was never applied to the empire while it existed and only became commonly used in English in the twentieth century[1]. This is not entirely correct as Ioannes Kantakuzenus regularly refers to "Βυζάντιον" in his work, for example when recording the arrival from Savoie of Empress Anna for her marriage in 1326 to Emperor Andronikos III[2], but this appears to be an exception among primary sources. The emperor in Constantinople originally bore the title imperator augustus, emphasising his status as direct successor to the Roman emperors. After the victory of Emperor Heraklius over the Persians in 630, the emperor adopted the title basileus, although the empresses still bore the title avgusta. From about the time Byzantium recognised Charlemagne's title as "Emperor" at Aix-la-Chapelle in 812, it appears that the emperors in Byzantium more frequently used the title Βασιλεύς Ρωμαίων ["Roman Emperor"], presumably to distinguish themselves from the emperor in the west[3]. The emperor added autokrator to his title after Symeon of Bulgaria was crowned Tsar and Autocrat of the Bulgarians at Constantinople in 913 by the Patriarch[4].

The emperor was elected, his election being confirmed by acclamation of the people and (until the accession of Emperor Alexios I Komnenos in 1081) by the senate. The custom developed of the emperor nominating his future successor, and associating him in the government as co-emperor, during his lifetime. The first example was the coronation in 741 of the future Emperor Leon IV by his father Emperor Konstantinos V. During the late 11th century, the practice became regular, following the coronation in 1092 of the future Emperor Ioannes II as co-emperor to his father Emperor Alexios I.

Political power in the empire shifted between dynasties, and within each dynasty, frequently, in most cases reflecting the military strength of the most powerful imperial candidate of the time. Corruption and profligacy were a constant feature of the different imperial families, rising to unprecedented levels during the rule of the Angelos dynasty during the late 12th and early 13th centuries. The weakened empire, unable to withstand powerful pressures from east and west, its military might negligible following years of neglect and under-spending, fell to the armies of the Fourth Crusade in 1204 to be replaced by the equally ineffective Latin empire of Constantinople. The Byzantine imperial tradition was maintained in the truncated imperial centres of Nikaia in Asia Minor, and Thessaloniki and Epirus in mainland Greece. By the time the Palaiologos dynasty recaptured Constantinople from the Latins in 1261, it was too late to revive the political force of the Byzantine empire. Imperial territory was gradually eaten away until, by the time of the fall of Constantinople to the Ottomans in 1453, little land remained under imperial administration apart from the city itself.

A complicated hierarchy of titles developed in the empire, complementing the equally rigid hierarchy of functions within the imperial government. According to the Kleterologos, composed in the 9th century by Philoteos, functions were divided into three categories, relating to the imperial army, the provincial army and the civil administration, with corresponding titles for each level of function within each category. As an individual rose in the hierarchy of functions, he changed his title according to the pre-set rules. The new system of titles invented by Emperor Alexios I was based on the hierarchy of family relationship with the emperor. The first class comprised the emperor and his immediate family (wife, mother, co-emperor), the sébastokrator (sons, brothers, paternal uncles and great-uncles of the emperor, and the gambroi, sons-in-law, brothers-in-law, those married to the emperor's paternal aunts). The second class consisted of the sébastos, which included all sons of a sébastokrator.

Family names evolved into a symbol of nobility, leading to individuals adding the family names of spouses, mothers or grandmothers to their own family names, although the process does not appear to have followed any particular rules. The practice developed over time into adopting multiple names from any members of an individual's family, with extremely confusing results which create difficulties in identifying the agnatic family to which a person belonged.

This document shows the descendants in the male line of all Roman and Byzantine families which at some point in time provided an emperor or anti-emperor in the east between 395 and 1057. Later imperial families are treated in the separate documents BYZANTIUM 1057-1204 and BYZANTIUM 1261-1453. Byzantine nobles families which never rose to imperial rank are set out in the document BYZANTINE NOBILITY.

Byzantine sources are numerous. The focus has been on extracting information which relates primarily to establishing the relationships in the Byzantine imperial and noble families, although brief reference is also made to the principal political and administrative events in Byzantine history. Where the information in different sources is the same, generally only a single source has been quoted. Where the sources contradict or complement each other, every effort has been made to include information from all relevant documentation. The sources consulted are principally those included in the nineteenth century Corpus Scriptorum Historiæ Byzantinæ series. The extracts are quoted from the Latin translations rather than the original Greek (unless a conflict is obvious), because it is assumed that more users of Medieval Lands will be familiar with Latin than Greek (also because the compiler has only restricted knowledge of the Greek language).

The main primary sources which have so far been consulted in detail for the preparation of the present document are Iordanes (History of the Romans)[5], the Chronicle of Marcellinus[6], the Chronicle of Cassiodorus[7], the Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon[8], the Chronographia of Theophanes[9], the Chronographia of Ioannes Malalas[10], Procopius's History of the Wars[11], the History of Patriarch Nikephoros[12], the Historia of Theophylactus Simocattæ[13], the Chronographia of Leo Grammaticus[14], De Ceremoniis[15] and De Administrando Imperio[16] of Emperor Konstantinos VII Porphyrogennetos, the Regum of Genesius[17], Theophanes Continuatus[18], the Annales of Symeon Magister (Pseudo-Symeon)[19], the Vitæ Recentiorum Imperatorum of Georgius Monachus[20], the Michælis Ducæ Nepotis Historia[21], the Chronographia of Mikhael Psellos[22], the Historia of Leo Diaconus[23], the Historia of Niketas Choniates[24], and the Historia of Nikephoros Briennios[25]. References in western primary sources to the Byzantine emperors and their families have also been incorporated.

Reference has also been made to the CD Rom Prosopography of the Byzantine Empire I (641-867)[26], both to cross-check primary source material and for direct quotes from less well-known sources. However, some caution is needed when consulting prosopographical compilations of this sort. Although they are of great use in identifying and comparing sources, it can be more difficult for them to reflect the context in which the information is included in the original primary sources. The result is that erroneous information in the original documents may not be identified as such. The on-line Prosopography of the Byzantine World database (2006.02) produced by King's College, London[27] has also been consulted, especially for seals. During the course of compiling the Byzantine series of documents in Medieval Lands, the information has been extracted page by page from the original published sources. While it cannot be guaranteed that all relevant information has been identified during this process, every attempt has been made to highlight and explain inconsistencies which became apparent as the work progressed.

An earlier version of this document was reviewed in detail by Morris Bierbrier, with additions and corrections where indicated (marked "[MB]"), in particular providing reference numbers from the Prosopography of the Later Roman Empire ("PLRE")[28] and Prosopographie der mittelbyzantinischen Zeit ("PmbZ")[29], which have not so far been consulted directly. I am grateful for his helpful collaboration.

Chapter 1. ROMAN EMPERORS in the EAST 395-717

A. EMPERORS 395-491

ARCADIUS 395-408, THEODOSIUS II 402-450

ARCADIUS, son of Emperor THEODOSIUS I & his first wife Placilla --- (end 377-1 May 408, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes names "Arcadius…et Honorius" as the sons of "magnus Theodosius" and his first wife[30]. Iordanes names "Archadium Honoriumque" as the children of Emperor Theodosius & his first wife, recording in a later passage that they later divided the empire, Arcadius ruling in Constantinople for 13 years after the death of their father[31]. His father proclaimed him co-Emperor ARCADIUS at Constantinople 19 Jan 383. The Chronicon Paschale records that "Arcadius" was proclaimed emperor "Constantinopoli a patre suo Theodosio Augusto in Tribunali Hebdomi…XIV Kal Feb"[32]. The Chronicon of Bishop Idatius records that Theodosius installed “Arcadium filium suum” as emperor in 383[33]. He succeeded as Emperor in the East in 395. The Chronicle of Marcellinus records the death in 408 of "Arcadius imperator"[34]. Cedrenus records the death of "Arcadius", aged 31, after ruling for 14 years and seven days, and his burial "in templo Apostolorum…cum Eudoxia uxore"[35]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Arcadii et filii eius, Theodosii, et Eudoxiæ…uxor Arcadii et mater Theodosii" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[36].

m (27 Apr 395) EUDOXIA, daughter of --- (-6 Oct 404, bur 12 Oct Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). The Chronicon of Bishop Idatius records that “Eudoxiam Arcadii uxorem” was converted to Catholicism from Arianism by “Constantinopoli Joannes Episcopus”[37]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "nobilissima Eudoxia" was created augusta "Id Jan" in 400[38]. Cedrenus records the death of "Eudoxia…uxor Arcadii", adding that she was "mulier barbara et ferox"[39]. The Chronicle of Marcellinus records the death in 404 of "Eudoxia uxor Arcadii"[40]. The Chronicon Paschale records the death "pridie Non Oct" in 404 of "Eudoxia Augusta" and her burial "in sede Sanctorum Apostolorum…IV Id Oct"[41]. She died after a miscarriage[42]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Arcadii et filii eius, Theodosii, et Eudoxiæ…uxor Arcadii et mater Theodosii" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[43].

Emperor Arcadius & his wife had five children:

1. FLACILLA (17 Jun 397-[young]). The Chronicle of Marcellinus records the birth in 397 of "Flaccilla Arcadio…filia"[44]. Cedrenus names "Pulcheriam, Falcillam, Arcadiam et Marinam…Theodosium ultimum", adding that the daughters all lived celibate[45]. The Chronicon Paschale records the birth "XV Kal Jul" in 397 of "Flaccilla nobilissima junior"[46]. It is presumed that she died young as no further record of her has been found.

2. PULCHERIA (19 Jan 399-Jul 453). The Chronicon Paschale records the birth "XIV Kal Feb" in 399 of "Pulcheria nobilissima"[47]. The Chronicle of Marcellinus records the birth in 399 of "Pulcheria Arcadio altera filia" and, in a later passage, that she was called Augusta in 414[48]. Cedrenus names "Pulcheriam, Falcillam, Arcadiam et Marinam…Theodosium ultimum", adding that the daughters all lived celibate[49]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "Pulcheria soror Theodosii iunioris" was named augusta "IV Non Jul" in 414[50]. She exercised a dominant influence over her brother Emperor Theodosius II[51]. She governed alone after her brother's death, but brought out of retirement Marcianus, a military officer, whom she proclaimed emperor and married[52]. Iordanes records the marriage of "Pulcheriam germanam Theodosii, quæ in palatio iam matura mulier virginitatem servaverat" and Marcianus after he succeeded as emperor[53]. Ioannes Malalas records that "Pulcheria Augusta" died two years after her marriage[54]. The Chronicon of Bishop Idatius records the death in Jul 454 of “Regina…Pulcheria” in the third year of her husband´s reign[55]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Marcianus et uxor eius Pulcheria" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[56]. m (450 after Aug) as his second wife, MARCIANUS --- (-26 Jan 457). He succeeded as Emperor MARCIANUS, Emperor in the East in 450.

3. ARCADIA (3 Apr 400-444). The Chronicon Paschale records the birth "III Non Apr" in 400 of "nobilissima Arcadia"[57]. The Chronicle of Marcellinus records the death in 444 of "Arcadia soror Theodosii"[58]. Cedrenus names "Pulcheriam, Falcillam, Arcadiam et Marinam…Theodosium ultimum", adding that the daughters all lived celibate[59].

4. THEODOSIUS (Constantinople 10 Apr 401-28 Jul 450, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). The Chronicle of Marcellinus records the birth "401 IV Id Apr" of "Theodosius iunior patre Arcadio"[60]. The Chronicon Paschale records the birth "IV Id Apr" in 401 of "nobilissimus Arcadii filius" and the proclamation of "Theodosius junior…Augustus Constantinopoli in Hebdomo in Tribunali by Arcadio patre…IV Id Jan" in 402[61]. The Chronicon of Bishop Idatius records the birth in 403 of “Theodosius Arcadii filius”[62]. Cedrenus names "Pulcheriam, Falcillam, Arcadiam et Marinam…Theodosium ultimum", adding that the daughters all lived celibate[63]. Iordanes names "Theodosius iunior Archadii filius…aduliscens egregius" when recording that he succeeded his father and ruled 43 years[64]. His father named him co-Emperor THEODOSIUS II, Emperor in the East 10 Jan 402, ruling jointly with his father until the latter's death in 408. The Chronicle of Marcellinus records that "Theodosius iunior" was created cæsar "in loco pater patruusque suus" in 402[65]. The Chronicle of Marcellinus records the death in 450 of "Theodosius imperator"[66]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Arcadii et filii eius, Theodosii, et Eudoxiæ…uxor Arcadii et mater Theodosii" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[67]. m (7 Jun 421) ATHENAIS, daughter of LEONTIUS [Heraclitus] & his wife --- ([392/93]-Jerusalem 460). Ioannes Malalas records the marriage of "Athenais…quæ et postea Eudocia vocata est, Leontii, Philosophi Atheniensis…filiam" and Emperor Theodosius after the death of her father, also naming her brothers "Valerium et Gesium"[68]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "Theodosius" married "puella Græcanica…Athenais…Heracliti Philosophi filia…VII Id Jun" in 421 and that she was then called "Eudocia"[69]. The emperor's sister Pulcheria arranged this marriage to the daughter of a professor of rhetoric in Athens, after which she was baptised EUDOKIA[70]. The Chronicle of Marcellinus records the marriage in 421 of "Theodosius imperator" and "Eudociam Achivam"[71]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "Eudocia" was named augusta "IV Non Jan" in 423[72]. She left court after disagreements in [444], continuing to use the title Augusta until her death[73]. Theophanes records the death of "Eudocia" in Jerusalem[74]. Emperor Theodosius & his wife had three children:

a) EUDOXIA (422-after 462). The Chronicon Paschale records the birth in 422 of "Athenaide seu Eudocia filiam…Eudociam"[75]. The Chronicle of Marcellinus records the birth in 422 of "Theodosius imperator Eudoxiam filiam"[76]. The same source records the betrothal in 424 of "Valentinianus cæsar" and "Theodosii imperatoris Eudoxiam filiam" and, in a later passage, their marriage in 437[77]. Theophanes records the marriage of "Valentinianus Gallæ Placidiæ et Constantini filius" and "Eudoxiam Theodosii imperatoris filiam ex Eudocia coniuge" in 426[78]. The Chronicon Paschale records the marriage "Constantinopolim…XII Kal Nov" in 437 of "Valentinianus junior Augustus" and "Eudoxia filia Theodosii et Eudocæ Augustæ"[79]. Ioannes Malalas records the marriage of "Valentinianus iunior…Constantii Imperatoris et Placidiæ magnæ filius" and "Theodosio…filiam Eudoxiam…ex Eudocia Augusta, Philosophi filia"[80]. Augusta 439. After the murder of her first husband, she was forced to marry his successor, but was captured during the Vandal invasion and taken to north Africa with her two daughters[81]. Ioannes Malalas records the marriage of "Eudoxia Augusta, Valentiniani Regis vidua" and "Maximo Tyranno"[82]. She was later allowed to return to Constantinople with one daughter[83]. m firstly (betrothed 424, 437) Emperor VALENTINIAN III, son of CONSTANTIUS & his wife Galla Placida (2 Jul 419-murdered 16 Mar 455). m secondly ([Mar] 455) PETRONIUS MAXIMUS, son of --- (-murdered 27 May 455). He succeeded in 455 as Emperor PETRONIUS MAXIMUS, Emperor in the West.

b) ARCADIUS (Apr ---- -Dec after 439). The Chronicorum 511 records the birth "539 IIII" of "Arcadio in Oriente filius Theodosius iunior" and in a later passage the death "549 XII" of "Arcadius parco filio Theodosiano Orientis imperium dereliquens"[84]. He was alive in 439[85].

c) FLACILLA (-431). The Chronicle of Marcellinus records the death in 431 of "Flaccilla Theodosii Augusti filia"[86].

5. MARINA (12 Feb 403-449). The Chronicle of Marcellinus records the birth "403 III Id Feb" of "Marina patre Arcadio"[87]. The Chronicon Paschale records the birth "IV Id Feb" in 403 of "nobilissima Marina"[88]. Cedrenus names "Pulcheriam, Falcillam, Arcadiam et Marinam…Theodosium ultimum", adding that the daughters all lived celibate[89]. The Chronicle of Marcellinus records the death in 449 of "Marina Theodosii regis soror"[90].

MARCIANUS 450-457

1. MARCIANUS ([391/92]-27 Jan 457, bur Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles). His birth date is estimated from his being recorded as dying aged 65. An officer who served as aide-de-camp of two generals in the army of Emperor Theodosius II, he was brought out of retirement by Pulcheria after the death of her brother, and proclaimed as Emperor MARCIANUS, Emperor in the East, 25 Aug 450. The Chronicon Paschale records that "Marcianus" was proclaimed emperor "a Circensibus seu Factionibus in Hebdomo…VIII Kal Sep" in 450[91]. He was crowned by the Patriarch of Constantinople, the first emperor to be crowned[92]. Iordanes records Marcianus ruling as emperor for 6 years and 6 months[93]. The Chronicle of Marcellinus records the death in 457 of "Marcianus imperator"[94]. Ioannes Malalas records that "Marcianus" died aged 65[95]. The Chronicon Paschale records the death in 457 of "Marcianus Augustus" aged 65[96]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Marcianus et uxor eius Pulcheria" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[97]. m firstly ---. Ioannes Malalas records that "Marcianus filiam" was born "ex priore uxore"[98]. The name of Marcianus's first wife is not known. m secondly (450 after Aug) PULCHERIA, daughter of Emperor ARCADIUS & his wife Eudoxia --- (19 Jan 399-Jul 453, bur Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles). Iordanes records the marriage of "Pulcheriam germanam Theodosii, quæ in palatio iam matura mulier virginitatem servaverat" and Marcianus after he succeeded as emperor[99]. Ioannes Malalas records that "Pulcheria Augusta" died two years after her marriage[100]. The Chronicon of Bishop Idatius records the death in Jul 454 of “Regina…Pulcheria” in the third year of her husband´s reign[101]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Marcianus et uxor eius Pulcheria" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[102]. Emperor Marcianus & his first wife had one child:

a) MARCIA EUPHEMIA . Ioannes Malalas records the marriage of "Marcianus filiam ex priore uxore" and "Anthimio"[103]. The primary source which confirms her name has not yet been identified. m ([453]) ANTHEMIUS, son of PROCOPIUS & his wife Lucina ---. He succeeded in 467 as Emperor ANTHEMIUS, Emperor in the West.

LEON I 457-474

1. LEON (Thrace [400/01]-18 Jan 474, bur Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles). His birth date is estimated from his being recorded as aged 73 when he died[104]. Iordanes records the accession of "Leo Bessica ortus progenie Asparis patricii" as emperor[105]. He succeeded in 457 as Emperor LEON I, Emperor in the East. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Leo Magnus" was buried in the church of the Holy Martyrs[106]. m VERINA, sister of BASILICUS, daughter of --- (-484). Iordanes names "Basiliscum…fratrem Augustæ Verenæ" when recording that her brother led an army to Africa[107]. Iordanes records that "Verina Augusta socrus sua [Zenonis]" tried to arrange the accession of her brother Basiliscus as emperor in opposition to her son-in-law[108]. Cedrenus records that "Basiliscus" installed "Marcum filium" as cæsar and "Zenodiam uxorem" crowned as augusta[109]. Emperor Leon & his wife had three children:

a) ARIADNE (before 457-[515], bur Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles). Zonaras names "Ariadnam et Leontiam" as the two daughters of Emperor Leon and his wife Verina[110]. Iordanes names "Ariagne" as the daughter of Emperor Leon I when recording the accession of her son as emperor[111]. Cedrenus records the marriage of "Zenonis" and "Ariadnæ Leonis filiæ", dating the event to the second year of her father´s reign[112]. Theophanes records the second marriage of "Areadna imperatrice" and "Anastasius"[113]. Cedrenus records the death of "Ariadna Augusta" in the twenty-fifth year of her second husband´s reign[114]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Anastasium Dicorum et eius uxorem Ariadnam" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[115]. m firstly ([466/67]) as his second wife, TARSICODISSA [ZENON], son of --- & his wife Lallis ([425/26] or [430/31]-9 Apr 491). Iordanes names "Patriciolum Zenonis generi sui [Leonis]" when recording that he ordered the murder of Emperor Anthemius[116]. He succeeded in 474 as Emperor ZENON, Emperor in the East. m secondly (491) ANASTASIUS, son of [DYRRACHENUS] & his wife Arriana --- ([430/31]-8 Jun 518). He succeeded in 491 as Emperor ANASTASIUS, Emperor in the East.

b) LEONTIA . Zonaras names "Ariadnam et Leontiam" as the two daughters of Emperor Leon and his wife Verina[117]. Her first marriage is recorded[118]. Theophanes names "Marcianus" son of "Anthemii, qui Romæ imperavit", husband of "Leontiæ, Verinæ quidem filiæ, imperatricis…Areadnæ sororis", when recording his rebellion against Emperor Zenon[119]. m firstly (divorced 474) IULIUS, son of ASPAR & his wife ---. He is recorded as consul in 459 and cæsar in 470-71, the marriage being dissolved after the murder of Iulius's father[120]. m secondly MARCIANUS, son of Emperor ANTHEMIUS, Emperor of the West & his wife Ælia Marcia Euphemia ---. The Chronicon Paschale names "Zenone et Marciano" as consuls in 469 and "Marciano et Festo" as consuls in 472[121].

c) son (463-463). He died aged 5 months. He is referred to in the Vita of Daniel Stylites and also a horoscope of Rhetorius which records the death of a son of the emperor aged five months[122].

2. EUPHEMIA . Georgius Codrinus records that "Euphemia germana eius soror" erected the statue of "magni Leonis Macelæ"[123].

LEON II 474, ZENON 474-491

1. RUSUMBLADEOTES . He is named by Photius who records how, according to the History of Candidus (work now lost), Emperor Leon I agreed an alliance with "the Isaurians through Tarasicodissas, the son of Rusumbladeotes, whose name was changed to Zeno when he became Leon´s son-in-law"[124]. m LALLIS, daughter of ---. Lallis is named as mother of Zenon[125]. Theophanes records that "Illus et Leontius" released "Longinum Zenonis fratrem et eius matrem" from the castle where they were held in custody[126]. Lallis is named as mother of Flavius Longinus and recorded as having entered a convent in 492, with his daughter and his wife[127], although she must have been very old at that date if it is correct that Zenon and Flavius Longinus were full brothers. Two children:

a) TARSICODISSAS [ZENON] ([425/26] or [430/31]-9 Apr 491, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). Photius records how, according to the History of Candidus (work now lost), Emperor Leon I agreed an alliance with "the Isaurians through Tarasicodissas, the son of Rusumbladeotes, whose name was changed to Zeno when he became Leon´s son-in-law"[128]. The Chronicon Paschale names "Zenone et Posthumiano" as consuls in 448 and "Zenone et Marciano" as consuls in 469[129]. Iordanes names "Patriciolum Zenonis generi sui [Leonis]" when recording that he ordered the murder of Emperor Anthemius (in 472)[130]. He succeeded in 474 as Emperor ZENON, Emperor in the East. The Chronicle of Cassiodorus records that "Zeno" succeeded "Leo senior" in 474 and ruled for 17 years[131]. Iordanes records that "Zenon natione Isaurus gener Leonis imperatoris" ruled for 17 years[132]. The Chronicle of Cassiodorus records the death in 491 of Zenon[133]. John Malalas records the death of Zenon aged 60 years and nine months[134]. The Chronicon Paschale records the death in Apr 491 of "Zeno" aged 65 years and nine months[135]. The Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon records the death in 491 of "Zenon imperator" aged 42[136], although this age is well out of the range recorded by the Greek sources. m firstly [ARCADIA], daughter of ---. Zenon is named as son of Zenon by his first marriage[137]. The name of Zenon's first wife is not known. Georgius Codrinus names "Arcadiæ secundæ uxoris Zenonis" when recording her statue "prope gradus…Topi in regione Michaelis archangeli, in thermis Arcadiani"[138]. It is unclear whether this passage in fact refers to Zenon´s first wife, although the text also refers to Ariadne as his first wife so the author may simply have transposed the two. m secondly ([466/67]) as her first husband, ARIADNE, daughter of Emperor LEON I & his wife Aelia Verina (before 457-[515]). Iordanes names "Ariagne" as the daughter of Emperor Leon I when recording the accession of her son as emperor[139]. Cedrenus records the marriage of "Zenonis" and "Ariadnæ Leonis filiæ", dating the event to the second year of her father´s reign[140]. She married secondly (491) Anastasius, who succeeded in 491 as Emperor ANASTASIUS, Emperor in the East. Theophanes records the second marriage of "Areadna imperatrice" and "Anastasius"[141]. Cedrenus records the death of "Ariadna Augusta" in the twenty-fifth year of her second husband´s reign[142]. Emperor Zenon & his first wife had one child:

i) ZENON . Zenon is named as son of Zenon by his first marriage and recorded as having predeceased his father[143].

Emperor Zenon & his second wife had one child:

ii) LEON ([467]-after 527). Cedrenus records that "rex" declared "Zenonis et suæ filiæ Ariadnæ filium Leonem" as cæsar, dating the event to the seventeenth year of his reign[144]. The Chronicle of Cassiodorus records that "Leo nepotem suum Leonem" as co-emperor in 473[145]. Iordanes names "Leo Leonem iuniorem ex Ariagne filia nepotem suum" when recording that he succeeded his maternal grandfather as emperor[146]. He succeeded his maternal grandfather in 474 as Emperor LEON II, Emperor in the East. Deposed in Nov 474. The sources are contradictory regarding the date of Leon´s death. The Chronicon Paschale states that "Nestorianus" records the death of "Leo junior" in Nov (presumably in 474) aged 17[147], although the age must be incorrect. On the other hand, the Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon records that "Zenon imperator" sought to kill his son Leo in 475 but that the latter survived until the time of Emperor Iustinian[148].

b) CONON . Zonaras names "Cononem" as brother of Emperor Zenon, adding that he was "flagitiosiorem, hominem sanguinarium"[149].

c) LONGINUS (-Alexandria 499). Theophanes records that "Illus et Leontius" released "Longinum Zenonis fratrem et eius matrem" from the castle where they were held in custody[150]. Theophanes names "Zenone…Longino…fratre ipsius" when recording that his candidacy for the imperial throne was rejected after his brother died[151]. The Chronicon Paschale names "Longino et Decio" as consuls in 486 and "Longino et Fausto" as consuls in 490[152]. Longinus, brother of Zenon, is recorded as consul in 486 and 490, as candidate for the throne in 491[153]. Zonaras records that Emperor Anastasius, after his accession (491), banished "Longinum…Zenonis fratrem" to Alexandria where he died "presbyter electus"[154]. m VALERIA, daughter of --- (-after 492). Valeria is named as wife of Longinus and recorded as having entered a convent in 492, with his daughter and his mother[155]. Longinus & his wife had one child:

i) LONGINA (-after 492). Longina is named as daughter of Flavius Longinus and recorded as having entered a convent in 492, with his wife and his mother[156].

B. FAMILY of EMPEROR ANASTASIUS

ANASTASIUS 491-518

1. --- . m ARRIANA, daughter of ---. The Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon records that "Ariagne Augusta Zenonis relicta" designated "Anastasium silentiarium Illyricianum patre Dyrracheno matre Arriana" as emperor in 491[157], although it is likely that "Dyrracheno" indicates that Anastasius's father was a native of Dyrrachium[158]. The issue is clarified by Ioannes Malalas who names "Anastasius Dicorus…ex Silentiariis…ex Dyrrachio Novæ Epirus oriundus"[159]. [Seven] children:

a) ANASTASIUS ([430/31]-8 Jun 518, bur Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles). He succeeded in 491 as Emperor ANASTASIUS, Emperor in the East. The Chronicon Paschale records the coronation in Apr 491 of "Anastasius Dicorus, ex Novæ Epiri Provincia oriundus, Ex-Silentario"[160]. The Chronicle of Cassiodorus records that Anastasius succeeded Zenon as emperor in 491[161]. The Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon records that "Ariagne Augusta Zenonis relicta" designated "Anastasium silentiarium Illyricianum patre Dyrracheno matre Arriana" as emperor in 491 and that he reigned for 27 years[162], although it is likely that "Dyrracheno" indicates that Anastasius's father was a native of Dyrrachium[163]. The Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon records that "Anastasius imperator" died ignominiously, aged 88, struck by lightening after he had fled to his bedroom in terror of the storm[164]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Anastasium Dicorum et eius uxorem Ariadnam" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[165]. m (491) as her second husband, ARIADNE, widow of Emperor ZENON, daughter of Emperor LEON I & his wife Aelia Verina (before 457-[515], bur Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles). Iordanes names "Ariagne" as the daughter of Emperor Leon I when recording the accession of her son as emperor[166]. Theophanes records the second marriage of "Areadna imperatrice" and "Anastasius"[167]. Cedrenus records the death of "Ariadna Augusta" in the twenty-fifth year of her second husband´s reign[168]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Anastasium Dicorum et eius uxorem Ariadnam" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[169]. Mistress (1): ---. The name of Anastasius´s mistress is not known. Anastasius had one illegitimate child by Mistress (1):

i) son (-killed Constantinople 507). Theophanes records "Anastasii filius ex pellice" among those killed during an insurrection at the hippodrome, dated to 507[170]. The name of this son is not known.

b) PAULUS (-496 or after). Paulus, brother of Anastasius, is recorded[171]. The Chronicon Paschale names "Paulo" as sole consul in 496[172]. The Chronicon Paschale names "Paulo et Musciano" as consuls in 512[173].

c) [son . Theophanes names "Hypatius imperatoris ex fratre nepos" among those present at ecumenical council meetings[174]. It is not known whether "ex fratre nepos" in this passage may have been an error for "ex sorore nepos", Hypatius would have been the same person as the son of Secundinus (see below), or whether the text is correct and refers to a second Hypatius who was the son of one of Emperor Anastasius´s brothers. m ---. One possible child:]

i) [HYPATIUS (-after 515). Theophanes names "Hypatius imperatoris ex fratre nepos" among those present at ecumenical council meetings[175]. It is not known whether "ex fratre nepos" in this passage may have been an error for "ex sorore nepos", in which case this would have been the same person as Hypatius son of Secundinus (see below), or whether the text is correct and refers to a second Hypatius who was the son of one of Emperor Anastasius´s brothers.]

d) MAGNA . Her parentage is confirmed by the Chronographia Brevis of Patriarch Nikephoros which names (her daughter) "Irenes…quæ Magnæ Anastasii Imp. sororis filia fuit" when recording her marriage[176]. m ---. The name of Magna´s husband is not known. One child:

i) EIRENE . The Chronographia Brevis of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "Olybrius", son of "Placidia, Areobindi uxor", married "Irenes…quæ Magnæ Anastasii Imp. sororis filia fuit"[177]. m OLYBRIUS, son of AREOBINDUS & his wife Anicia Iuliana [daughter of Emperor Olybrius]. Ioannes Malalas names "Consule Olybrio, Ariobindi filio"[178]. He is recorded as consul in 491[179].

e) CÆSARIA . Her parentage and marriage are confirmed by Theophanes who names (her son) "Hypatius, Secundini et sororis Anastasii imperatoris filius"[180]. A later passage in the same source names "Secundianus patricius Anastasii ex sorore gener et Hypatii pater" when recording that he freed his son Hypatius from imprisonment "in Mysia" with the help of Vitalianus[181]. She is named in PLRE[182]. m SECUNDINUS, son of ---. The Chronicon Paschale names "Secundino et Felice" as consuls in 511[183]. Secundinus & his wife had two children:

i) HYPATIUS (-executed 532). Procopius names “Hypatius Augusti [=Anastasius] ex sorore nepos” as one of the “quatuor…belli Imperatores”[184]. The Chronicon Paschale names "Patricio et Hypatio" as consuls in 500[185]. Theophanes names "Hypatius, Secundini et sororis Anastasii imperatoris filius" among the "missi duces" who accompanied "Areobindo Dalagaiphi filio…[consul]" with the army of Emperor Anastasius against "Gotthorum, Bessorum et aliarum Thracicarum nationum"[186]. He must have been captured during this campaign as a later passage in the same source records that "Secundianus patricius Anastasii ex sorore gener et Hypatii pater" freed his son Hypatius from imprisonment "in Mysia" with the help of Vitalianus[187]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "Hypatius" was proclaimed emperor during the Nika riots in 532[188]. Theophanes records the execution of "Hypatius et Pompeius eius frater"[189]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "Hypatius et Pompeius patricii" were killed in 532 and their bodies thrown into the sea[190]. m MARIA, daughter of ---. Procopius names "Hypatius…uxore Mariæ"[191].

ii) POMPEIUS (-executed 532). Procopius names “Hypatio et Pompeio Anastasii Augusti ex sorore nepotibus”[192]. The Chronicon Paschale names "Pompeio et Avieno" as consuls in 501[193]. Theophanes records the execution of "Hypatius et Pompeius eius frater"[194]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "Hypatius et Pompeius patricii" were killed in 532 and their bodies thrown into the sea[195]. [196]m ANASTASIA, daughter of ---. Pompeius & his wife had one child:

(a) IOANNES (-before [566/67]). Procopius names "Ioannes filius Pompeii, qui frater fuit Hypatii” when recording his marriage[197]. m ([546/48]) as her second husband, PRÆIECTA, widow of AREOBINDUS, daughter of DULCIDIUS & his wife Vigilantia ---. Procopius names “Areobindus…et Preiectam uxorem, filiam Vigilantiæ, sororis Iustiniani Aug.”[198]. Procopius records that “Preiectam" married "Ioannes filius Pompeii, qui frater fuit Hypatii”, dated to [546] from the context[199].

f) [daughter . Her parentage is confirmed by Procopius who names “Probum Imperatoris Anastasii a sorore nepotem…patricium”[200]. It is possible that this daughter was either Magna or Cæsaria named above. m ---. One child:

i) PROBUS (-542 or after). Procopius names “Probum Imperatoris Anastasii a sorore nepotem…patricium”[201]. The Chronicon Paschale names "Probo et Avieno" as consuls in 502, "Clementino et Probo" in 513, and "Philoxeno et Probo" as consuls in 525[202]. Probus is recorded as alive in 542[203].

g) [--- . m ---.]

i) [--- . m ---.]

(a) MAGNUS [Flavius Anastasius Paulus Moschianus Probus] . His family origin is confirmed by the Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus which names "Juliana…daughter of the consul Magnes…descended from king Anastasius" when recording her marriage[204]. Emperor Anastasius is not recorded as having surviving descendants (see above), so it is probable that Magnus was a descendant of one of the emperor´s brothers or sisters. It appears chronologically possible for him to have been the emperor´s great-nephew, but no primary source has yet been found which confirms that this is correct. His name suggests descent from the emperor´s sister Magna (see above). The Chronicon Paschale names "Magno" as sole consul in 518[205]. m ---. Magnus & his wife had one child:

(1) IULIANA . The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that "Juliana…daughter of the consul Magnes…descended from king Anastasius" married "the brother of King Justin", adding that she was placed in a nunnery "upon the straits of Chalcedon"[206]. m MARCELLUS, son of DULCIDIUS & his wife Vigilantia (-after 565).

The precise relationship between the following family group and the family of Emperor Anastasius has not yet been ascertained:

1. --- . His family origin is confirmed by the Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus which names "John…descended from king Anastasius…the son…of queen Theodora´s daughter"[207]. m ---, daughter of [Emperor IUSTINIAN I] & [his wife] Theodora ---. Procopius´s Anecdota record that "Anastasio ex filia nepoti [Theodoram]" married "Ioanninam Belisarii filius"[208]. The notes in the edition consulted, written by Nicolas Alemann, interpret this passage as meaning that Anastasius´s mother was the emperor´s legitimate daughter by his wife[209]. However, the passage in question does not refer to this daughter´s father. Procopius´s Anecdota records that Theodora had an illegitimate son "Ioannem" by an Arab father[210], presumably born before her marriage, so it is not impossible that she also had an illegitimate daughter. No record has been found of her son Anastasius claiming the imperial throne, which it is likely he would have done if he had been the son of Emperor Iustinian´s legitimate daughter. Her marriage is confirmed by the Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus which names "John…descended from king Anastasius…the son…of queen Theodora´s daughter"[211]. Two children:

a) ANASTASIUS ([545/50]-). Procopius´s Anecdota record that "Anastasio ex filia nepoti [Theodoram]" married "Ioanninam Belisarii filius"[212]. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that "Athanasius the son of Theodora´s daughter" joined the sect of Philoponus and spent his "great wealth…in obtaining converts"[213]. m IOANNINA, daughter of BELISARIUS [Byzantine general in Italy] & his wife Antonina ---. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus names "Antonina the wife of the patrician Belisarius and the bosom friend and confidante of the unworthy Theodora" as mother of Photius by her first husband[214].

b) IOANNES ([545/50]-). The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus names "John…descended from king Anastasius…the son…of queen Theodora´s daughter"[215]. m ---, daughter of --- & his wife Antipatra ---. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus names "Antipatra…mother-in-law of John…descended from king Anastasius…the son…of queen Theodora´s daughter", adding that she was placed in a nunnery "upon the straits of Chalcedon"[216].

C. FAMILY of EMPEROR IUSTINIAN I

IUSTINUS I 518-527, IUSTINIAN I 527-565

Two siblings, parents not known.

1. IUSTINUS ([450/52]-1 Aug 527, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). Procopius records that "during the rule of the Emperor Leo in Constantinople, three young farmers of Illyrian birth…Zimarchus, Ditybistus and Justin of Bederiana, after a desperate struggle with poverty, left their homes to try their fortune in the army"[217]. This provides the basis for his estimated birth date range. An indication of a humble background is provided by Zonaras who records the accession of "Justinus Thraci, parentibus ortus ignobilius et obscuris" as emperor[218]. He succeeded in 518 as Emperor IUSTINUS I. Iordanes records that "Iustinus comite Scubitorum" was elected emperor by the senate and ruled for 9 years[219]. Cedrenus records the death in Aug "quinta indictione" of "Justinus" and his burial "in mansione Augustæ, iuxta uxorem Euphemiam"[220]. The Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon records that "Iustinus…Illyricianus" reigned 8 years and 9 months[221]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Iustinus Imp. et Euphemia uxor eius" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[222]. m LUPICINA, daughter of --- (-before 1 Aug 527, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). Procopius´s Anecdota name "Lupicinæ…serva eaque barbara", bought for Iustinus, as his wife[223]. The Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon names "Lupicina" as the wife of "Iustinus…Illyricianus", specifying that she was later called EUPHEMIA on her accession as empress[224]. Procopius records that the empress "adopted the name Euphemia when she came to the palace", the text suggesting that she died before her husband[225]. Georgius Codrinus records that a statue of "Euphemiæ uxoris Iustini Thracis" was placed "in templo S. Euphemiæ"[226]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Iustinus Imp. et Euphemia uxor eius" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[227].

2. [BIGLENIZA] . The notes in the edition of Procopius´s Anecdota which has been consulted, written by Nicolas Alemann, state that the mother of Emperor Iustinian is named in Theophilus´s Vita Iustiniani[228], but the latter work has not yet been consulted. Her relationship to Emperor Iustinus is confirmed by the Pauli Historiæ Romanæ which records the accession of "Iustinianus sororis Iustini filius" as emperor[229]. Her marriage is confirmed by Procopius´s Anecdota which refer to Emperor Iustinian´s mother as "Sabbatii coniugis"[230]. m SABBATIUS, son of ---. Sabbatius & his wife had [three] children:

a) PETRUS SABBATIUS (Tauresium 11 May 482-14 Nov 565). He was later known as IUSTINIAN. The Pauli Historiæ Romanæ records the accession of "Iustinianus sororis Iustini filius" as emperor[231]. Procopius records that "his nephew Justinian, while still a youth, was the virtual ruler" after the accession of Emperor Iustinus[232]. The Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon records that "Iustinianus nepos Iustini" was appointed magister militum ordinarius in 520, installed as cæsar by the senate in 525 and succeeded as emperor in 527, ruling for 39 years and 7 months[233]. Procopius records that Iustinian seized power from his uncle after obliging him to change the law to permit Iustinian to marry the courtesan Theodora, and ascended the throne with her three days before Easter[234]. Cedrenus records that "Justinianum sororis suæ filium" was crowned 14 Apr (in 527) and ruled four months with "Justinus"[235]. He succeeded as Emperor IUSTINIAN I, sole emperor from his maternal uncle's death in 527. The Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon records the death in 567 of "Iustinianus"[236]. Cedrenus records that Iustinian ruled for thirty-eight years, seven months and thirteen days[237]. m ([526/Mar 527]) THEODORA, daughter of AKAKIOS "the Bearkeeper" & his wife --- (-Jun or 11 Jul 548, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). The Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon names "Theodora" as wife of Emperor Iustinian I and, in a later passage, her death from cancer in 549 at the synod of Calchedon[238]. Procopius records that "Acacius…the keeper of wild beasts used in the amphitheatre in Constantinople…nicknamed the Bearkeeper" died during the reign of Emperor Anastasius leaving "three daughters…Comito, Theodora and Anastasia, of whom the eldest was not yet seven years old", that "their mother [later] put them on the stage", and that Iustinian "fell violently in love with" Theodora[239]. Procopius records that Iustinian seized power from his uncle after obliging him to change the law to permit Iustinian to marry the courtesan Theodora, and ascended the throne with her three days before Easter[240]. Theophanes records the death "mense Iunio, indictione undecima" of "imperatrix Theodora"[241]. Cedrenus records the death in 11 Jul of "Theodora Augusta" in the twenty-first year of her husband´s reign[242]. Procopius´s Anecdota records that Theodora had an illegitimate son "Ioannem" by an Arab father[243], presumably born before her marriage. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Theodora, Magni Iustiniani uxor" was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[244]. Iustinian I & his wife had [one possible child]:

i) [daughter . Procopius´s Anecdota record that "Anastasio ex filia nepoti [Theodoram]" married "Ioanninam Belisarii filius"[245]. The notes in the edition consulted, written by Nicolas Alemann, interpret this passage as meaning that Anastasius´s mother was the emperor´s legitimate daughter by his wife[246]. However, the passage in question does not refer to this daughter´s father. Procopius´s Anecdota records that Theodora had an illegitimate son "Ioannem" by an Arab father[247], presumably born before her marriage, so it is not impossible that she also had an illegitimate daughter. No record has been found of her son Anastasius claiming the imperial throne, which it is likely he would have done if he had been the son of Emperor Iustinian´s legitimate daughter. Her marriage is confirmed by the Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus which names "John…descended from king Anastasius…the son…of queen Theodora´s daughter"[248].] m ---, of the family of Emperor Anastasius, son of ---.

Iustinian I had [one possible illegitimate son by an unknown mistress]:

ii) [THEODOROS "Tzirus" (-after [573]). Photius records that, according to the History of Theophanes of Byzantium (work now lost), Emperor Iustinus II appointed "Theodore the son of Justinian surnamed Tzirus" to command the emperor´s army against the Persians after dismissing "Marcian cousin of the emperor", dated to after "the eighth year of Justin´s reign"[249]. The text does not identify Theodoros´s father precisely. He may have been the son of Emperor Iustinian I or alternatively the son of Iustinianus, son of Germanus (see below). The latter possibility assumes that he was young when granted the army command. If Theodoros was the emperor´s son, he must have been illegitimate as there is no reference to his having been a candidate for the imperial throne.]

b) VIGILANTIA . The Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon names "Vigiliantiæ sororis Iustiniani Augusti" as mother of "Iustinus iunior"[250]. Georgius Codrinus records that "Portus Sophianus" was built by "Iustino curopalate, marito Sophiæ cognomento Lobes" with four statues of "Sophiæ nempe et Iustini, Arabiæ et Vigiliantiæ matris eius"[251]. m DULKIDIUS, son of ---. The Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon names "Dulcidio" as husband of "Vigiliantiæ sororis Iustiniani Augusti" and father of "Iustinus iunior"[252]. Dulkidius & his wife had [six] children:

i) IUSTINUS ([510/20]-5 Oct 578). The Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon names "Iustinus iunior Vigiliantiæ sororis Iustiniani Augusti filius, patre Dulcidio natus" when recording his succession[253]. Theophylactus names "Iustinus iunior, Iustiniani ex sorore nepos" when recording that he succeeded his maternal uncle[254]. His approximate birth date range is based firstly on the likely birth date of his mother assuming that she was born soon before or soon after the birth of her brother Emperor Iustinian II, and secondly on the assumption that he was young adult when recorded as consul in 540. He succeeded in 565 as Emperor IUSTINUS II.

- see below.

ii) MARCELLUS (-after 565). Corippus names "Marcellus" as brother of Emperor Iustinus II[255]. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that, at the beginning of his reign, Emperor Mauritius granted his father and brother "the entire property of the great patrician Marcellus, brother of the late king Justin"[256]. m IULIANA, daughter of consul MAGNUS & his wife ---. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that "Juliana…daughter of the consul Magnes…descended from king Anastasius" married "the brother of King Justin", adding that she was placed in a nunnery "upon the straits of Chalcedon"[257].

iii) BADUARIUS . Theophanes records that "Baduarium fratrem suum" rebelled against Emperor Iustinus II in 565[258]. same person as…? BADUARIUS (-in Italy 576). The unusual name "Baduarius" suggests that the husband of Emperor Iustinus´s daughter [Arabia] may have been the same person as the emperor´s brother, and so her paternal uncle. If this is correct, the marriage may have taken place after Baduarius´s rebellion against his brother, as part of the arrangements to restore peace in the family. m ([after 565]) [ARABIA], daughter of Emperor IUSTINUS II & his wife Sophia --- (-after 578). The Iohannis Abbatis Biclarensis Chronica names "Baduarius gener Iustini principis" when recording that he was defeated in battle by the Lombards in Italy and died soon after[259]. Arabia is the only daughter of Emperor Iustinus who is named: Georgius Codrinus records the position of the statues of "Sophiæ uxoris Iustini Thracis et Arabiæ filiæ eius et Helenæ consobrinæ eius"[260], and records that "Portus Sophianus" was built by "Iustino curopalate, marito Sophiæ cognomento Lobes" with four statues of "Sophiæ nempe et Iustini, Arabiæ et Vigiliantiæ matris eius"[261]. It is therefore assumed that all these sources refer to the same daughter, although this is not beyond all doubt. Baduarius [& his wife] had [one possible daughter]:

(a) FIRMINA . She is named as daughter of Baduarius[262], but it is not known whether her mother was Arabia.

iv) PRÆIECTA . Procopius names “Areobindus…et Preiectam uxorem, filiam Vigilantiæ, sororis Iustiniani Aug.”[263]. Procopius records that “Preiectam" married "Ioannes filius Pompeii, qui frater fuit Hypatii”, dated to [546] from the context[264]. m firstly AREOBINDUS, son of --- (-killed Carthage 545). m secondly ([546/48]) IOANNES, son of POMPEIUS & his wife ---.

v) [son/daughter . His or her parentage is confirmed by Theophanes who records that Emperor Iustinus II sent "nepotem suum et militiæ magistrum Marcianus" as commander of an army to fight "Mauris" in Africa, dated to [565][265], assuming that "nepos" can be interpreted as nephew in this passage. There is no indication whether Marcianus´s father or mother was the blood relative of the emperor, nor whether he/she was one of the brothers and sister named above.] m ---. One child:

(a) MARCIANUS (-after [565]). Theophanes records that Emperor Iustinus II sent "nepotem suum et militiæ magistrum Marcianus" as commander of an army to fight "Mauris" in Africa, dated to [565][266]. Photius records that, according to the History of Theophanes of Byzantium (work now lost), Emperor Iustinus II appointed "Theodore the son of Justinian surnamed Tzirus" to command the emperor´s army against the Persians after dismissing "Marcian cousin of the emperor", dated to after "the eighth year of Justin´s reign"[267].

vi) [son/daughter . His or her parentage is confirmed by Georgius Codrinus records the position of the statues of "Sophiæ uxoris Iustini Thracis et Arabiæ filiæ eius et Helenæ consobrinæ eius"[268]. The Latin translation of this passage is inaccurate as Helena is called "ανεψιας" in the Greek original, more precisely translated as "neptis". For the purposes of the present family reconstruction, it has been assumed that "niece" is the appropriate English translation, although this is not beyond all doubt. There is no indication whether Helena´s father or mother was the blood relative of the emperor, nor whether he/she was one of the brothers and sister named above.] m ---. One child:

(a) HELENA . Georgius Codrinus records the position of the statues of "Sophiæ uxoris Iustini Thracis et Arabiæ filiæ eius et Helenæ consobrinæ eius"[269]. The Latin translation of this passage is inaccurate as Helena is called "ανεψιας" in the Greek original, more precisely translated as "neptis". It has been assumed for the purposes of the present family reconstruction that "niece" is the appropriate English translation, although this is not beyond all doubt.

c) [son (-[515/30]). Although Iordanes names Germanus as "fratruelis" of Emperor Iustinian, he does not name his parents[270]. It is not certain that "fratruelis" indicates that one of Germanus's parents was the brother or sister of the emperor but this appears likely. The relationship is chronologically possible, although tight considering the emperor's birth date in 482 and the birth of Germanus's daughter in [527]. The relationship appears confirmed by Procopius who names “imperator Germanum, fratris sui filium”[271]. If it is correct that Germanus´s father was Emperor Iustinian´s brother, his absence from the records suggests that he died before or soon after the emperor´s accession (in 527).] m ---. Three children:

i) GERMANUS ([500/10]-[551]). Iordanes names Germanus as "fratruelis" of Emperor Iustinian[272]. Procopius names “imperator Germanum, fratris sui filium”[273]. Procopius records the death of "Germanus…dux”, dated to [551] from the context[274]. m firstly PASSARA, daughter of ---. Procopius names "Passara” as first wife of Germanus when recording his second marriage after she died[275]. m secondly (542) as her second husband, MATASUNTHA, widow of VITIGIS King of Italy, daughter of EUTHARICH & his wife Amalasuintha Queen of Italy ([518]-). Iordanes names "Athalaricum et Matesuentham" as children of "Amalasuentham…de Eutharico viro suo", specifying that Matasuntha married firstly "Vitigis" by whom she was childless and secondly "Germanus patricius fratruelis Iustiniani imp"[276]. Procopius records that Germanus married secondly "Amalasuntha Theoderici filia Matasuntham” after the death of Vitigis[277]. Germanus & his first wife had three children:

(a) IUSTINUS (-murdered 568). Procopius names "Germanum…filios…maior natu Iustinus”[278]. The Iohannis Abbatis Biclarensis Chronica records that "Iustinus filius Germani patricii consobrinus Iustini imperatoris" was murdered in Alexandria on the instructions of "Sophiæ Augustæ"[279].

(b) IUSTINIANUS (-after 578). Procopius records that the emperor sent "altero Germani filio Iustiniano” to Dalmatia with the army after the death of his father, dated to [551] from the context[280]. Theophylactus names "Iustinianus Germani filius" when recording his appointment as dux[281]. Paulus Diaconus records that Empress Sophia incited "Iustinianum, Iustini nepotem" against Emperor Tiberius after his accession (in 578), but that the emperor was reconciled with Iustinianus and agreed that his daughter should marry Iustinianus´s son and that his son should marry Iustinianus´s daughter[282]. m ---. The name of Iustinianus's wife is not known. Iustinianus & his wife had two children:

(1) son (-after 578). Paulus Diaconus records that Emperor Tiberius was reconciled with Iustinianus and agreed that his daughter should marry Iustinianus´s son and that his son should marry Iustinianus´s daughter[283]. [same person as…? THEODOROS "Tzirus" (-after [573]). Photius records that, according to the History of Theophanes of Byzantium (work now lost), Emperor Iustinus II appointed "Theodore the son of Justinian surnamed Tzirus" to command the emperor´s army against the Persians after dismissing "Marcian cousin of the emperor", dated to after "the eighth year of Justin´s reign"[284]. The text does not identify Theodoros´s father precisely. He may have been the son of Emperor Iustinian I (presumably illegitimate) or alternatively the son of Iustinianus, son of Germanus. The latter possibility assumes that he was young when granted the army command.]

(2) daughter (-after 578). Paulus Diaconus records that Emperor Tiberius was reconciled with Iustinianus and agreed that his daughter should marry Iustinianus´s son and that his son should marry Iustinianus´s daughter[285].

(c) IUSTINA ([527]-). She is named as daughter of Germanus[286]. Procopius records that “Ioannem Vitaliani [ex sorore] nepotem" married "filiam Germani…imperatoris nepos ex fratre”, dated to [545] from the context[287]. m ([545]) IOANNES, son of --- & his wife --- [sister of Vitalianus].

Germanus & his second wife had one child:

(d) GERMANUS ([551]-). Iordanes names "Germanum" as son of Matasuntha & her second husband, specifying that he was born posthumously[288]. His fate is not known, but it would be chronologically consistent if he was the same person as Germanus patrikios, whose daughter married the son of Emperor Mauritius (see below).

ii) BORAIDES (-548). Procopius names “Boraides et Iustus, Iustiniani Aug. ex frater nepotes”[289]. m ---. The name of Boraides's wife is not known. Boraides & his wife had one child:

(a) daughter . Procopius records that "Germanus, imperatoris ex fratre nepos, fratrem…Boraidem” and his wife had an only daughter whom he disinherited[290].

iii) IUSTUS (-544). He is named as brother of Germanus[291]. Procopius names “Boraides et Iustus, Iustiniani Aug. ex frater nepotes”[292]. Procopius records the death of “Iustus Imperatoris a fratre nepos”[293].

IUSTINUS II 565-578

IUSTINUS, son of DULKIDIUS & his wife Vigilantia --- ([510/20]-5 Oct 578). The Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon names "Iustinus iunior Vigiliantiæ sororis Iustiniani Augusti filius, patre Dulcidio natus" when recording his succession[294]. Theophylactus names "Iustinus iunior, Iustiniani ex sorore nepos" when recording that he succeeded his maternal uncle[295]. His approximate birth date range is based firstly on the likely birth date of his mother assuming that she was born soon before or soon after the birth of her brother Emperor Iustinian II, and secondly on the assumption that he was young adult when recorded as consul in 540. The Chronicon Paschale names "Justino Juniore" as sole consul in 540[296]. Georgius Codrinus records that "Portus Sophianus" was built by "Iustino curopalate, marito Sophiæ cognomento Lobes" with four statues of "Sophiæ nempe et Iustini, Arabiæ et Vigiliantiæ matris eius"[297]. He succeeded in 565 as Emperor IUSTINUS II. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that Emperor Iustin, towards the end of his reign, appointed Tiberius as cæsar and adopted him as a son, renaming him "Constantine"[298]. The Iohannis Abbatis Biclarensis Chronica records that "Iustinus iunior" reigned for 11 years and, in a later passage, his death[299]. The Chronicon Paschale records the death 5 Oct 578 of "Justinus Augustus"[300].

m SOPHIA, niece of Empress THEODORA, daughter of [TZITAS & his wife Cometo ---] or daughter of [--- & his wife Anastasia ---] (-after [601], bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). The Victoris Tonnennensis Episcopi Chronicon names "Sophia Theodoræ Augustæ neptis" as the wife of "Iustinus iunior"[301]. Her alternative parentage is deduced as follows: Procopius names "Comito, Theodora and Anastasia" as the three daughters of "Acacius…the keeper of wild beasts used in the amphitheatre in Constantinople…nicknamed the Bearkeeper"[302]; Theophanes records that Emperor Iustinian I arranged the marriage of "Tzitam" and "sororem…augustæ Theodoræ…Cometo"[303]; no source has been found to indicate whether Sophia´s mother was Cometo or Anastasia. Georgius Codrinus records the position of the statues of "Sophiæ uxoris Iustini Thracis et Arabiæ filiæ eius et Helenæ consobrinæ eius"[304]. Georgius Codrinus records that "Portus Sophianus" was built by "Iustino curopalate, marito Sophiæ cognomento Lobes" with four statues of "Sophiæ nempe et Iustini, Arabiæ et Vigiliantiæ matris eius"[305]. Theophanes records that Emperor Mauritius granted crowns to "Sophia Augusta Iustini coniux et Constantina Mauricii…uxor" 26 Mar "indictione quarta", dated to 601[306]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Sophia uxor Iustini" was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[307].

Emperor Iustinus & his wife had two children:

1. IUSTUS (-[before 565]). Theophanes records the burial of "filius eius Iustus", referring to Emperor Iustinus, dated to before his accession in 565[308].

2. ARABIA (-after 578). Georgius Codrinus records the position of the statues of "Sophiæ uxoris Iustini Thracis et Arabiæ filiæ eius et Helenæ consobrinæ eius"[309]. Georgius Codrinus records that "Portus Sophianus" was built by "Iustino curopalate, marito Sophiæ cognomento Lobes" with four statues of "Sophiæ nempe et Iustini, Arabiæ et Vigiliantiæ matris eius"[310]. Her marriage is confirmed by the Iohannis Abbatis Biclarensis Chronica which names "Baduarius gener Iustini principis" when recording that he was defeated in battle by the Lombards in Italy and died soon after[311]. The source does not specify that Baduarius´s wife was the emperor´s daughter Arabia but no record of any other daughter has yet been identified. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that Tiberius, after his accession, was pressured to repudiate his wife and marry "Sophia…or her daughter, who was also then a widow", which he refused to do[312]. The reference to the daughter being a widow suggests that she was the same person as the wife of Baduarius, whose death is recorded shortly before. m ([after 565]) [her paternal uncle,] BADUARIUS, son of [DULKIDIUS & his wife Vigilantia ---] (-in Italy 576). The unusual name "Baduarius" suggests that the husband of Emperor Iustinus´s daughter [Arabia] may have been the same person as the emperor´s brother (see below), and so her paternal uncle. If this is correct, the marriage may have taken place after Baduarius´s rebellion against his brother, as part of the arrangements to restore peace in the family. Baduarius & his wife had one child:

The relationship, if any, between the following individuals and the family of Emperor Anastasius is not known. However, the repeated use of the name Germanus suggests that they may have been members of this family.

1. GERMANUS (-after 582). Theophanes records that "Germano" was declared "cæsar" when he married Emperor Tiberius´s daughter[313]. It is not known whether he was related to the family of Emperor Iustinian I (see above), although his name suggests that this is a possibility. m (582) CHARITO, daughter of Emperor TIBERIUS II & his wife Anastasia. Theophanes names "Charitonem et Constantinam" as the two daughters of "Tiberius" and his wife, adding in a later passage that "alteram filiam…Charito" married "Germano" who was declared "cæsar"[314].

2. GERMANUS (-murdered 605 or [607]). Patrikios. The Chronicon Paschale records that "Germanus patricius, Theodosii Mauricii filii socer" was tonsured in 603[315]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "ex-imperatrice Constantina" was beheaded "in Portu Eutropii ad Chalcedonem" in 605 with "Mauricii liberi sequioris sexus, Anastasia, Theoctista et Cleopatra…cum Germani filia, Theodosii uxore" and "ipseque Germanus"[316]. Theophanes records that "Germanumque cum eius filia" were killed "ad Proten insulam" in 599 (adjusted to [607] after taking into account the date discrepancy in the source)[317]. m LEONTIA, daughter of ---. Theophanes names "Germanus…Leontiam uxorem" when recording that she took the imperial crown during her husband´s rebellion[318]. Germanus & his wife had one child:

a) daughter (-murdered 605 or [607]). Theophanes records the marriage "Nov indictione 5" of "Mauricius imperator filium" and "filiæ Germani patricii"[319]. Cedrenus records that "Mauricius filio suo Theodosio" married "Germani patricii filiam" in the twentieth year of his father´s reign[320]. Theophylactus records the marriage "anno imperii Mauricii decimo nono" of "Theodosio filio imperator" and "Germani…senatoris filiam"[321]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "ex-imperatrice Constantina" was beheaded "in Portu Eutropii ad Chalcedonem" in 605 with "Mauricii liberi sequioris sexus, Anastasia, Theoctista et Cleopatra…cum Germani filia, Theodosii uxore" and "ipseque Germanus"[322]. Theophanes records that "Germanumque cum eius filia" were killed "ad Proten insulam" in 599 (adjusted to [607] after taking into account the date discrepancy in the source)[323]. m (Nov 601) THEODOSIUS, son of Emperor MAURITIUS & his wife Constantina (4 Aug [584/85]-murdered Calicratia Nov 602, bur [Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles]).

3. IUSTINIANUS (-killed 668). Patrikios. Theophanes records that "Iustinianum patricium" was killed in 668[324]. m ---. The name of Iustinianus´s wife is not known. Iustinianus & his wife had one child:

a) GERMANUS ([643/48]-730). Theophanes records that "Iustinianum patricium" was killed in 668, adding that he was father of "Germani" who later became Patriarch[325]. Zonaras states that Germanus was "iam pubertatis annos" when his father was killed and that he himself was castrated at the time[326]. Theophanes records that "Germanus Cyzici" succeeded "Ioannes" as Patriarch of Constantinople, a post he held for 15 years until replaced "sub imperatoris Leonis annum decimum tertium" by "Anastasius"[327].

D. FAMILY of EMPEROR TIBERIUS II

TIBERIUS II 578-582

1. TIBERIUS CONSTANTINUS ([532]-14 Aug 582). The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that Emperor Iustin, towards the end of his reign, appointed Tiberius as cæsar and adopted him as a son, renaming him "Constantine"[328]. He succeeded in 578 as Emperor TIBERIUS II. His birth date is estimated from Paulus Diaconus recording the accession of the 50 year old "Tiberius Constantinus" after the death of "Iustino"[329]. The Iohannis Abbatis Biclarensis Chronica records the accession of Tiberius on the death of Emperor Iustinus II, that he reigned 6 years and, in a later passage, that he died in 582[330]. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that "the lavishness of Tiberius had exhausted the treasures which Justin had stored up in the palace"[331]. Betrothed to ---, daughter of IOANNES & his wife Anastasia. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus names the wife of Tiberius cæsar as "Ino", adding that she had previously been married to "some military officer at a place called Daphnudii Castra" by whom she bore a daughter who was betrothed to Tiberius but died[332]. m as her second husband, ANASTASIA, widow of IOANNES, daughter of --- (Daphnudium [530/35]-[593]). Theophanes names "Anastasia" as wife of "Tiberius"[333]. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus names the wife of Tiberius cæsar as "Ino", adding that she had previously been married to "some military officer at a place called Daphnudii Castra" by whom she bore a daughter who was betrothed to Tiberius, that her husband and daughter had died, and that she had then married Tiberius herself[334]. Anastasia is unlikely to have been born much later than [535], assuming that her daughter by her first marriage was old enough for betrothal before she married Tiberius and bearing in mind that Anastasia´s daughter by her second marriage is recorded as having given birth to her first child in [584/85]. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that Tiberius, after his accession, was pressured to repudiate his wife and marry "Sophia…or her daughter, who was also then a widow", which he refused to do[335]. Georgius Codrinus records that "Tiberios vero Thrax cum Anastasia uxore" restored "ecclesia SS. quadraginta martyrum prætorium"[336]. Theophanes records the death of "Anastasia augusta socrus Mauricii, Tiberii…imperatoris coniux" in 586 (adjusted to [593] after taking into account the dating discrepancy of the source) and her burial next to her husband[337]. Emperor Tiberius & his wife had three children:

a) CHARITO . Theophanes names "Charitonem et Constantinam" as the two daughters of "Tiberius" and his wife, adding in a later passage that "alteram filiam…Charito" married "Germano" who was declared "cæsar"[338]. Cedrenus records that "alteram [filiam] Charito" married "Germano duci"[339]. m (582) GERMANUS, son of ---. He is recorded as cæsar in 582[340]. It is not known whether he was related to the family of Emperor Iustinian I (see above), although his name suggests that this is a possibility.

b) CONSTANTINA (-murdered Chalcedon 605 or [607], bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes names "Charitonem et Constantinam" as the two daughters of "Tiberius" and his wife, adding in a later passage that "Constantina filia" married "Mauricio" who was declared "cæsar"[341]. Theophylactus records that "Mauricius" married "filia Constantina [Tiberii]"[342]. The Iohannis Abbatis Biclarensis Chronica records the marriage of "Mauricio magistro militum Orientis" and "Tiberius imperator…filiam suam"[343]. Paulus Diaconus records that "Tiberius…Constantinus" granted his daughter to "Mauricium, genere Cappadocem" when nominating him as his successor[344]. Theophanes records that Emperor Mauritius granted crowns to "Sophia Augusta Iustini coniux et Constantina Mauricii…uxor" 26 Mar "indictione quarta", dated to 601[345]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "ex-imperatrice Constantina" was beheaded "in Portu Eutropii ad Chalcedonem" in 605 with "Mauricii liberi sequioris sexus, Anastasia, Theoctista et Cleopatra…cum Germani filia, Theodosii uxore" and "ipseque Germanus"[346]. Theophanes records that "Constantinam…cum tribus filiabus" were killed "ad Europii portus" in 599 (adjusted to [607] after taking into account the date discrepancy in the source)[347]. m (582 before 14 Aug) MAURITIUS, son of PAULOS & his first wife Ioanna --- (-murdered Chalcedon 27 Nov 602). He succeeded 13 Aug 582, named the day before his predecessor's death, as Emperor MAURITIUS. Paulus Diaconus records that "Tiberius…Constantinus" named "Mauricium, genere Cappadocem" as his successor with the advice of "Sophiæ augustæ" as he felt death approaching after a reign of seven years[348].

c) child . The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that "Tiberius cæsar" had three children by his wife, but the third child must have died young as the same passage also records that his wife "and his two daughters" were given "the house of Hormisdas as a residence" after coming to Constantinople[349].

E. FAMILY of EMPEROR MAURITIUS

1. PAULUS (-Constantinople [593]). The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that, at the beginning of his reign, Emperor Mauritius sent for "his father…Paul,and his mother and his brother…Peter and his two sisters, one of whom was a widow and the other the wife of Philippicus", adding that he made his father "head of the senate and chief of all the patricians"[350]. Theophanes records the death in Constantinople of "Paulus imperatoris pater" in 586 (adjusted to [593] after taking into account the dating discrepancy of the source)[351]. m firstly IOANNA, sister of Bishop ARABISUS, daughter of ---. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that, at the beginning of his reign, Emperor Mauritius sent for "his father…Paul,and his mother and his brother…Peter and his two sisters, one of whom was a widow and the other the wife of Philippicus"[352]. She is named by Du Cange but the primary source which he quotes has not yet been traced[353]. m secondly (after 582) ---. Theophanes records that "Mauricius" celebrated the marriage of "Pauli patri sui" shortly after his accession[354]. Paulus & his first wife had four children:

a) MAURITIUS ([538/39]-murdered Chalcedon 27 Nov 602, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). His parentage is confirmed by Theophanes who names "Mauricius" and "Pauli patri sui", adding that Mauritius was 43 years old when he began his reign[355]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Emperor Mauritius was "Cappadocien du village d'Arpsous"[356]. He succeeded 13 Aug 582, named the day before his predecessor's death, as Emperor MAURITIUS.

- see below.

b) PETRUS (-executed [Chalcedon 27] Nov 602). The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that, at the beginning of his reign, Emperor Mauritius sent for "his father…Paul,and his mother and his brother…Peter and his two sisters, one of whom was a widow and the other the wife of Philippicus", adding that he granted Paul and Peter "the entire property of the great patrician Marcellus, brother of the late king Justin"[357]. Theophylactus names "Petrus…dux, imperatoris frater"[358]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that "Pierre frère de Maurice" revealed to his brother a plot against his life[359]. Georgius Codrinus records that "Petrus magister et curopalata, germanus frater Mauricii imperatoris" built "ecclesiam S. deiparæ cognominatam Areobindi"[360]. The Chronicon Paschale records that ""Petrus…curopalata, Mauricii frater" was captured and killed in Nov 602, the passage suggesting that he was killed with his brother[361].

c) THEOCTISTE . Pope Gregory I wrote to "Theoctistam sororem imperatoris"[362]. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that, at the beginning of his reign, Emperor Mauritius sent for "his father…Paul,and his mother and his brother…Peter and his two sisters, one of whom was a widow and the other the wife of Philippicus"[363]. The name of her husband is not known. m --- (-before 582).

d) GORDIA . The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "Mauricii imperatoris…sororem" was the wife of "Philippicum"[364]. Theophanes records the marriage "20 Dec, indictione secunda" of "Philippicum" and "Gordia sorore [Mauricii]" and the promotion of Philippicus as "orientis ducem"[365]. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that, at the beginning of his reign, Emperor Mauritius sent for "his father…Paul,and his mother and his brother…Peter and his two sisters, one of whom was a widow and the other the wife of Philippicus", adding that he appointed Philippicus "comes excubitorum and subsequently…commander-in-chief of all the armies in the East"[366]. m (20 Dec 583) PHILIPPICUS, son of --- (-[614], bur Chrysopolis). The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Emperor Mauritius sent "Philigdion mari de sa sœur" to lead troops against "la ville de Mouphargin", which the Persians had captured from the Greeks, and that he retook the town[367]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "Philippicus patricius et comes excubitorum" was tonsured in 603[368]. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that Emperor Heraklius appointed "Philippicum" to succeed Priskus in part of his positions, but that he died soon after and was buried "in…templo…Chrysopoli", dated to 614 from the context[369].

e) DAMIANA . She is named by Du Cange as sister of Emperor Mauritius, and mother of "Athenogenes Petræ in Arabia Episcopus", but the abbreviation for the primary source which he quotes has not yet been deciphered[370]. m ---.

The precise relationship between the following family group and Emperor Mauricius is not known:

1. PETRUS . m ---. The name of Petrus's wife is not known. Petrus & his wife had one child:

a) DOMITIANUS (-12 Jan 602). He is named as son of Petrus and archbishop of Melitene[371]. Theophylactus records that "Domitianum cognatum suum" (referring to Emperor Mauritius) was appointed "ecclesiæ Melitenensis antistitem"[372]. The Ecclesiastical History of John Bishop of Ephesus records that, before his accession, Emperor Mauritius had made "one relative…Domitian, metropolitan of Melitene…in Cappadocia", adding that he became the emperor´s chief counsellor after his accession "head of the senate and chief of all the patricians"[373].

MAURITIUS 582-602

MAURITIUS, son of PAULUS & his first wife Ioanna --- ([538/39]-murdered Chalcedon 27 Nov 602, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). His parentage is confirmed by Theophanes who names "Mauricius" and "Pauli patri sui", adding that Mauritius was 43 years old when he began his reign[374]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Emperor Mauritius was "Cappadocien du village d'Arpsous"[375]. He succeeded 13 Aug 582, named the day before his predecessor's death, as Emperor MAURITIUS. Theophylactus records that "Mauricius" succeeded "Tiberio Augusto"[376]. Paulus Diaconus records that "Tiberius…Constantinus" named "Mauricium, genere Cappadocem" as his successor with the advice of "Sophiæ augustæ" as he felt death approaching after a reign of seven years[377]. The Iohannis Abbatis Biclarensis Chronica records that "Mauricius" succeeded on the death of Emperor Tiberius in 582 and reigned 20 years[378]. Paulus Diaconus states that "Mauricius augustus" ruled for 21 years and was murdered by "Focate…strator Prisci patricii" with his sons[379]. Fredegar records that "Fogas dux et patricius" returned from a victory against the Persians, killed Emperor Mauritius and installed himself as emperor in his place[380]. He fled Constantinople 22 Nov 602[381]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Emperor Mauritius fled to "Chalcédoine" where he was killed[382]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "Mauricius Tiberius cum uxore Constantina, et novem liberis sex masculis…Theodosio, Tiberio, Petro, Paulo, Justino et Justiniano, et tribus filiabus Anastasia, Theoctiste et Cleopatra" fled 2 Nov 602[383]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Mauricii uxor cum liberis…[et] Mauricii Imperatoris" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[384]. Georgius Codrinus records that the statues of "Mauricii eiusque uxoris et liberorum" were placed "ad portam æream"[385].

m (582 before 14 Aug) CONSTANTINA, daughter of Emperor TIBERIUS II & his wife Anastasia (-murdered Chalcedon 605 or [607], bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes names "Charitonem et Constantinam" as the two daughters of "Tiberius" and his wife, adding in a later passage that "Constantina filia" married "Mauricio" who was declared "cæsar"[386]. Theophylactus records that "Mauricius" married "filia Constantina [Tiberii]"[387]. The Iohannis Abbatis Biclarensis Chronica records the marriage of "Mauricio magistro militum Orientis" and "Tiberius imperator…filiam suam"[388]. Paulus Diaconus records that "Tiberius…Constantinus" granted his daughter to "Mauricium, genere Cappadocem" when nominating him as his successor[389]. Theophanes records that Emperor Mauritius granted crowns to "Sophia Augusta Iustini coniux et Constantina Mauricii…uxor" 26 Mar "indictione quarta", dated to 601[390]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "Mauricius Tiberius cum uxore Constantina, et novem liberis sex masculis…Theodosio, Tiberio, Petro, Paulo, Justino et Justiniano, et tribus filiabus Anastasia, Theoctiste et Cleopatra" fled 2 Nov 602[391]. Theophylactus records that "Constantinam…Tiberii imperatoris filiam…cum tribus filiabus" retired to "privatum domum Leonis" after her husband was killed[392]. According to the Georgian Chronicle, the father of Emperor Mauritius's wife was "Kasre II king of Iran" who sought revenge when the emperor was killed and "went to the country of the Byzantines, destroyed many districts, captured Jerusalem"[393], but this is inconsistent with the other sources quoted. The Chronicon Paschale records that "ex-imperatrice Constantina" was beheaded "in Portu Eutropii ad Chalcedonem" in 605 with "Mauricii liberi sequioris sexus, Anastasia, Theoctista et Cleopatra…cum Germani filia, Theodosii uxore" and "ipseque Germanus"[394]. Theophanes records that "Constantinam…cum tribus filiabus" were killed "ad Europii portus" in 599 (adjusted to [607] after taking into account the date discrepancy in the source)[395]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Mauricii uxor cum liberis…[et] Mauricii Imperatoris" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[396].

Emperor Mauritius & his wife had nine children:

1. THEODOSIUS (4 Aug [584/85]-murdered Calicratia Nov 602, bur [Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles]). Theophanes records the birth of "imperatori…filius…Theodosium", dated to [584/85] after adjustment for the dating inaccuracy of the source[397]. Theodosius was the first child born porphyrogennetos to the imperial families since the founding of the Empire in the East. The Iohannis Abbatis Biclarensis Chronica names "Mauricius Theodosium filium suum ex filia Tiberi imperatoris" when recording that his father installed him as cæsar in 587 and as emperor in 588[398]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Emperor Mauritius installed "son fils Theotos" as cæsar[399]. Theophanes records the installation "26 Mar, indictione octava" of "Theodosius Mauricii imperatoris supreme filius" as emperor[400]. Theophylactus records that "Theodosius filiorum natu maximum" governed "Constantinopolis…cum administratione Orientis"[401]. Paulus Diaconus names "Theudosio et Tiberio et Constantino" as the sons of "Mauricius augustus" when recording that they were murdered with their father[402]. Theophanes records that "filio…imperatoris…Theodosium" went to "Calicratiam cum Germano socero" where he fell ill with poisoning, suspicion falling on his father-in-law[403]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "Mauricius Tiberius cum uxore Constantina, et novem liberis sex masculis…Theodosio, Tiberio, Petro, Paulo, Justino et Justiniano…" fled 2 Nov 602, adding that "Theodosius Mauricii filius" was killed "ad Diadromos juxta Acritam"[404]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Mauricii uxor cum liberis…[et] Mauricii Imperatoris" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[405]. It is not known which of Emperor Mauricius's children were buried there. m (Nov 601) ---, daughter of GERMANUS patrikios & his wife Leontia --- (-murdered Chalcedon 605 or [607]). Theophanes records the marriage "Nov indictione 5" of "Mauricius imperator filium" and "filiæ Germani patricii"[406]. Cedrenus records that "Mauricius filio suo Theodosio" married "Germani patricii filiam" in the twentieth year of his father´s reign[407]. Theophylactus records the marriage "anno imperii Mauricii decimo nono" of "Theodosio filio imperator" and "Germani…senatoris filiam"[408]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "ex-imperatrice Constantina" was beheaded "in Portu Eutropii ad Chalcedonem" in 605 with "Mauricii liberi sequioris sexus, Anastasia, Theoctista et Cleopatra…cum Germani filia, Theodosii uxore" and "ipseque Germanus"[409]. Theophanes records that "Germanumque cum eius filia" were killed "ad Proten insulam" in 599 (adjusted to [607] after taking into account the date discrepancy in the source)[410].

2. TIBERIUS (-murdered 22 Nov 602). Theophylactus records that "Tiberio", implying but not stating expressly that he was the son of Mauricius, governed "Romam veterem cum Italia et insulis in mari Tyrrheno"[411]. Paulus Diaconus names "Theudosio et Tiberio et Constantino" as the sons of "Mauricius augustus" when recording that they were murdered with their father[412]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "Mauricius Tiberius cum uxore Constantina, et novem liberis sex masculis…Theodosio, Tiberio, Petro, Paulo, Justino et Justiniano…" fled 2 Nov 602[413].

3. PETRUS (-murdered Chalcedon 27 Nov 602). The Chronicon Paschale records that "Mauricius Tiberius cum uxore Constantina, et novem liberis sex masculis…Theodosio, Tiberio, Petro, Paulo, Justino et Justiniano…" fled 2 Nov 602, adding that "Mauricius Tiberius…cum Petro, Justino et Justiniano" were killed 27 Nov "iuxta Chalcedonem"[414]. Paulus Diaconus names "Theudosio et Tiberio et Constantino" (apparently incorrectly naming the third son) as the sons of "Mauricius augustus" when recording that they were murdered with their father[415].

4. PAULUS (-murdered Nov 602). The Chronicon Paschale records that "Mauricius Tiberius cum uxore Constantina, et novem liberis sex masculis…Theodosio, Tiberio, Petro, Paulo, Justino et Justiniano…" fled 2 Nov 602[416].

5. IUSTINUS (-murdered Chalcedon 27 Nov 602). The Chronicon Paschale records that "Mauricius Tiberius cum uxore Constantina, et novem liberis sex masculis…Theodosio, Tiberio, Petro, Paulo, Justino et Justiniano…" fled 2 Nov 602, adding that "Mauricius Tiberius…cum Petro, Justino et Justiniano" were killed 27 Nov "iuxta Chalcedonem"[417].

6. IUSTINIANUS (-murdered Chalcedon 27 Nov 602). The Chronicon Paschale records that "Mauricius Tiberius cum uxore Constantina, et novem liberis sex masculis…Theodosio, Tiberio, Petro, Paulo, Justino et Justiniano…" fled 2 Nov 602, adding that "Mauricius Tiberius…cum Petro, Justino et Justiniano" were killed 27 Nov "iuxta Chalcedonem"[418].

7. ANASTASIA (-murdered Chalcedon 605 or 607). The Chronicon Paschale records that "Mauricius Tiberius cum uxore Constantina, et novem liberis sex masculis…et tribus filiabus Anastasia, Theoctiste et Cleopatra" fled 2 Nov 602[419]. Theophylactus records that "Constantinam…Tiberii imperatoris filiam…cum tribus filiabus" retired to "privatum domum Leonis" after her husband was killed[420]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "ex-imperatrice Constantina" was beheaded "in Portu Eutropii ad Chalcedonem" in 605 with "Mauricii liberi sequioris sexus, Anastasia, Theoctista et Cleopatra…cum Germani filia, Theodosii uxore" and "ipseque Germanus"[421]. Theophanes records that "Constantinam…cum tribus filiabus" were killed "ad Europii portus" in 599 (adjusted to [607] after taking into account the date discrepancy in the source)[422].

8. THEOCTISTE (-murdered Chalcedon 605 or 607). The Chronicon Paschale records that "Mauricius Tiberius cum uxore Constantina, et novem liberis sex masculis…et tribus filiabus Anastasia, Theoctiste et Cleopatra" fled 2 Nov 602[423]. Theophylactus records that "Constantinam…Tiberii imperatoris filiam…cum tribus filiabus" retired to "privatum domum Leonis" after her husband was killed[424]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "ex-imperatrice Constantina" was beheaded "in Portu Eutropii ad Chalcedonem" in 605 with "Mauricii liberi sequioris sexus, Anastasia, Theoctista et Cleopatra…cum Germani filia, Theodosii uxore" and "ipseque Germanus"[425]. Theophanes records that "Constantinam…cum tribus filiabus" were killed "ad Europii portus" in 599 (adjusted to [607] after taking into account the date discrepancy in the source)[426].

9. CLEOPATRA (-murdered Chalcedon 605 or 607). The Chronicon Paschale records that "Mauricius Tiberius cum uxore Constantina, et novem liberis sex masculis…et tribus filiabus Anastasia, Theoctiste et Cleopatra" fled 2 Nov 602[427]. Theophylactus records that "Constantinam…Tiberii imperatoris filiam…cum tribus filiabus" retired to "privatum domum Leonis" after her husband was killed[428]. The Chronicon Paschale records that "ex-imperatrice Constantina" was beheaded "in Portu Eutropii ad Chalcedonem" in 605 with "Mauricii liberi sequioris sexus, Anastasia, Theoctista et Cleopatra…cum Germani filia, Theodosii uxore" and "ipseque Germanus"[429]. Theophanes records that "Constantinam…cum tribus filiabus" were killed "ad Europii portus" in 599 (adjusted to [607] after taking into account the date discrepancy in the source)[430].

10. [MARIA . The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Emperor Mauritius married "sa fille Marie" to "Khosrov" who built three churches in her honour[431]. The Georgian Chronicle (18th century) records that "l'empereur Maurice…donna sa fille en mariage" to "Kasré-Ambarwez", who had sought refuge in Greece after being expelled from Persia, and gave him troops which enabled him to recapture his kingdom from "Bahram Tchoubin"[432]. A possible indirect indication of the marriage is also contained in the Georgian Chronicle (13th century), a possibly more reliable source, as discussed in the introduction to the document GEORGIA, which states that, after the murder of Emperor Mauritius, "wife's father, Kasre king of Iran" became angered and invaded "the country of the Byantines, destroyed many districts, captured Jerusalem and the Lord's cross"[433]. The translator of the edition consulted assumed that the phrase "wife's father" meant Emperor Mauritius's wife's father, which is inconsistent with the parentage of Mauritius's known wife Constantina as reported in other primary sources (see above). However, it could be a garbled reference to the Persian king's own wife's father being the deceased emperor. m ([601]) KHOSRO-PARVIZ King of Persia, son of ORMIZDAS King of Persia.]

F. FAMILY of EMPEROR PHOKAS

PHOKAS 602-610

1. --- . m DOMENTIA, daughter of ---. Domentia is named as mother of Emperor Phokas[434].

a) PHOKAS (547-4 Oct 610). Fredegar records that "Fogas dux et patricius", returned from a victory against the Persians, killed Emperor Mauritius and installed himself as emperor in his place[435]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Emperor Mauritius fled to "Chalcédoine" where he was killed by soldiers who installed "leur general Phocas" as emperor[436]. He was crowned 23 Nov 602 as Emperor PHOKAS after Emperor Mauricius fled the city 22 Nov The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records the rebellion of "germani duo Heraclius et Gregorius" governors of Africa against Emperor Phokas[437]. m LEONTIA, daughter of ---. Theophylactus records that "tyrannus" (referring to Phokas) was married to "Leontiam"[438]. Leontia was crowned Augusta 25 Nov 602[439]. Phokas & his wife had one child:

i) DOMENTIA . Theophanes records the marriage of "Phocas…filiam Domentiam" and "Prisco patricio et excubitorum comiti" celebrated "in Marinæ palatio" in 599 (adjusted to [607] after taking into account the date discrepancy in the source)[440]. Leo Grammaticus records that "Crispus gener Phocæ" was present at and consented to the coronation of "Heraclius"[441]. m ([607]) KRISPUS [Priskus], son of --- (-Chora Monastery [613]). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros names "imperatoris gener Crispus" as prefect of Constantinople at the time of the rebellion of "germani duo Heraclius et Gregorius" governors of Africa, recording that he opposed the choice of Heraklius as emperor by the senate[442]. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that Krispus was sent to "monasterio…Choræ" where he died after one year, dated to 613 from the context[443].

b) DOMENTIOLUS (-executed 610). Theophanes records that Emperor Heraklius imprisoned "Phocas…Domentiolum fratrem magistrum" at "Longos muros"[444]. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records the execution of "Domentiolum Phocæ fratrem", dated to 610 from the context[445].

c) --- . m ---. One child:

i) DOMITIOLUS . He and his wife are named, and their three sons recorded[446]. m EIRENE, daughter of ---. Du Cange names Domitius (confusing him with Domentiolus brother of Emperor Phokas) and his wife Irene, adding that the couple had three sons, but the primary source which he quotes has not yet been consulted[447].

(a) three sons.

G. FAMILY of EMPEROR HERAKLIUS

Two brothers, parents not known:

1. HERAKLIUS (-[610]). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records the rebellion of "germani duo Heraclius et Gregorius", appointed governors of Africa under Emperor Mauricius, against Emperor Phokas[448]. m EPIPHANIA, daughter of --- (-Constantinople [612], bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes records that "Epiphania Heraclii matre" died at Constantinople soon after Heraklius´s wife, adding that they were both buried "in imperiali monasterio…Novæ pœnitentiæ"[449]. Heraklius & his wife had [four] children:

a) [MARIA ([570/80]-). Her parentage and two marriages are confirmed by the History of Patriarch Nikephoros which names "Martino" as first husband of "Heraclius…Mariæ sororis" and also names her second husband "Eutropium"[450]. Some confusion about the precise relationship is suggested by Zonaras who names Heraclius´s second wife as "Martina vero fratris filia"[451]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian also records that Emperor Heraklius married "Martine fille de son frère"[452]. Cedrenus records the ermperor´s "incestissimis nuptiis" with "consobrina sua Martina"[453]. The Latin translation of this passage is inaccurate as Helena is called "ανεψιας" in the Greek original, more precisely translated as "neptis". If Maria was the full sister of Emperor Heraklius, she was probably considerably older than her brother, considering the estimated birth dates of Martina and Heraklius which are shown below. It has been assumed for the purposes of the presentation of the present family reconstruction that Martina´s mother was Heraklius´s sister, but square brackets have been added to highlight that is not beyond all doubt. A more remote family relationship could explain why other sources, in particular Theophanes, do not mention that the emperor and his second wife´s mother were related. Some possibilities are that Maria was the daughter of either Heraklius senior or his wife Epiphania by an earlier marriage, or even that she was the step-daughter of Heraklius senior by an earlier otherwise unrecorded marriage and brought up with Heraklius as his older sister.] m firstly MARTINUS, son of ---. [454]m secondly EUTROPIUS, son of ---. Maria & her first husband had one child:

i) MARTINA ([590/600]-after [641/42]). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records the marriage of "Heraclius" and "Mariæ sororis filiam Martinam…Martino patrem natam", adding that such a marriage was "contra ius omne ac Romanorum leges"[455]. Cedrenus refers to the ermperor´s "incestissimis nuptiis" with "consobrina sua Martina"[456]. The Latin translation of this passage is inaccurate as Helena is called "ανεψιας" in the Greek original, more precisely translated as "neptis". Zonaras names Heraclius´s second wife as "Martina vero fratris filia"[457]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian also records that Emperor Heraklius married "Martine fille de son frère"[458]. Theophanes records that the marriage of "Heraclius" and "Martinam…augustam" was announced, dated to the third year of his reign, but makes no mention either of the blood relationship between the two or of Martina´s parentage[459]. Paulus Diaconus names Martina as mother of "Heraclones eius filius" when recording that he succeeded his father[460]. Martina is unlikely to have been born much later than 600 considering that she gave birth to her first child soon after her marriage. Theophanes records that "Heracleonas Martinæ filius" obtained power four months after the death of his father but that the senate expelled "Heracleonam, matrem eius Martinam et Valentinum" the following year, and that Martina´s tongue was cut out[461]. No other reference has been found to "Valentinus" but the context of this passage suggests that he was Martina´s lover at the time. Cedrenus refers to Martina´s death and burial when recording that her son Herakleonas was buried "cum matre Martina…in dominico monasterio", implying that he was killed soon after being exiled which suggests that his mother shared the same fate[462]. m (614) as his second wife, Emperor HERAKLIUS, son of HERAKLIUS & his wife Epiphania --- (575-11 Mar 641, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles).

Maria & her second husband had one child:

ii) STEPHANUS (-after [626]). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that Emperor Heraklius gave "Ioannem cognomento Atalaricum naturalem filium ex concubina natum, et Stephanum consobrinum Mariæ sororis filium, et Eutropium, necnon et Ioannem alterum Boni patricii filium…spurium" as hostages to the Persians, dated to 626 in the edition consulted[463].

b) HERAKLIUS ([580/90]-11 Mar 641, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "germani duo Heraclius et Gregorius", governors of Africa under Emperor Mauricius, sent "filios suos…Heraclium Heraclii filium…et…Nicetam Gregorii filium" with armed forces to Byzantium in rebellion against Emperor Phokas[464]. His birth date range is estimated on the obvious assumption that he was adult at the time of the rebellion in 610, but still sufficiently young not to have been married. He succeeded in 610 as Emperor HERAKLIUS.

- see below.

c) THEODOROS (-[Heliopolis, Syria [651/52], bur Constantinople]). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that Emperor Heraklius appointed "Theodorum fratrem suum…curopalatem" to succeed Crispus, dated to 613 from the context[465]. The Continuator of Isidor's Historia Gothorum, Wandalorum, Sueborum names "Theodorus Eraclii Augusti germanus"[466]. Theophanes records that Emperor Heraklius sent "Theodorum proprium fratrem" to negotiate peace with "rege Persarum Siroe" who had invaded "Persas Edessæ…Palestina, Hierosolymis", dated to [626/29][467]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Emperor Heraklius sent "son frère Theotorigé" to fight in Mesopotamia where he arrived "à Ourha"[468]. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "Theodorum", previously ruling "comitem…Trithurium", was appointed by his brother to succeed on the death of "Sergius" as "ducem Orienti", dated 634 in the edition consulted[469]. Theophanes records the death at "Heriopoli" of "imperatoris Heraclii frater Gregorius" and the repatriation of his body to Constantinople preserved in myrrh, dated to [652/53][470]. It is likely that this entry refers to Theodoros, brother of Emperor Heraklius, and that "Gregorius" was a mistake in the passage. No other reference has been found to a brother of Heraklius named Gregoras. In addition, the preceding paragraph in the same source names "Gregorio Theodori filio" (see below) at Damascus, which suggests that father and son may have been on campaign together. No other reference has been found to the death of Theodoros. m ---. The name of Theodoros´s wife is not known. Theodoros & his wife had one child:

i) [GREGORAS] [Theodoros] (-after [651/52]). Magister. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "Atalarichum filium et Theodorum magistrum, Theodori fratris filium" rebelled against Emperor Heraklius, dated to [635/37] from the context, adding that Theodoros was exiled to "insulam Gaudomeleten"[471]. Theophanes records that "Gregorio Theodori filio" besieged Damascus, dated to [651/52][472]. There appears little doubt that these two entries refer to the same person. It is likely that his name was Gregoras, also called Theodoros, in the same way that his first cousin Emperor Konstantinos III is recorded in primary sources with the alternative name Heraklius. The usual naming convention among Byzantine nobility dictated that a son was not named after his father. However, these two examples suggest that a variant may have been practised in the family of Emperor Heraklius.

d) [GREGORAS (-Heliopolis, Syria [652/53], bur Constantinople). Theophanes records the death at "Heriopoli" of "imperatoris Heraclii frater Gregorius" and the repatriation of his body to Constantinople preserved in myrrh, dated to [652/53][473]. As noted above, it is likely that this entry refers to Theodoros, brother of Emperor Heraklius, and that "Gregorius" was a mistake in the passage. No other reference has been found to a brother of Heraklius named Gregoras. In addition, the preceding paragraph in the same source names "Gregorio Theodori filio" (see below) at Damascus, which suggests that father and son may have been on campaign together. No other reference has been found to the death of Theodoros.]

2. GREGORAS (-after 610). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records the rebellion of "germani duo Heraclius et Gregorius", appointed governors of Africa under Emperor Mauricius, against Emperor Phokas[474]. Patrikios. m ---. The name of Gregoras's wife is not known. Gregoras & his wife had one child:

a) NIKETAS (-before [629/30]). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "germani duo Heraclius et Gregorius", governors of Africa under Emperor Mauricius, sent "filios suos…Heraclium Heraclii filium…et…Nicetam Gregorii filium" with armed forces to Byzantium in rebellion against Emperor Phokas[475]. Theophanes records that "Heraclio patricio Africæ duci Heraclium filium et Gregoræ patricii…filium Nicetam" rebelled against Emperor Phokas[476]. Patrikios. His death is dated from a passage in the History of Patriarch Nikephoros which records the marriage of his daughter Gregoria, noting that her betrothal had been agreed "adhuc vivo parente illius", dated to [629/30] from the context[477]. m ---. The name of Niketas's wife is not known. Niketas & his wife had three children:

i) GREGORAS (-after [645/48]). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that Emperor Heraklius promoted "Nicetæ filium…ad patriciatum", the passage suggesting that his father had recently died, dated to [629/30] from the context[478]. Patrikios. Theophanes records that "Gregorius patricius" rebelled in Africa, dated to [645/48][479].

ii) GREGORIA . The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "Heraclium sive Constantinum", son of Emperor Heraklius, married "filiam…Gregoriam…Nicetæ patricio", a later passage recording their marriage, dated to [629/30] from the context, noting that their betrothal had been agreed "adhuc vivo parente illius"[480]. m ([629/30]) her second cousin, Emperor KONSTANTINOS III, son of Emperor HERAKLIUS & his first wife Evdokia --- (3 May 612-23 Jun 641).

iii) NIKE . The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records the marriage of "Nicetæ…eiusdemque filiam Nicen" and "Theodosio" son of Emperor Heraklius "ex Martina", dated to [629/30] from the context[481]. m ([629/30]) her second cousin, THEODOSIUS, son of Emperor HERAKLIUS & his second wife Martina (-before 641).

HERAKLIUS 610-641, HERAKLEONAS 641

HERAKLIUS, son of HERAKLIUS & his wife Epiphania --- ([580/90]-11 Mar 641, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "germani duo Heraclius et Gregorius", governors of Africa under Emperor Mauricius, sent "filios suos…Heraclium Heraclii filium…et…Nicetam Gregorii filium" with armed forces to Byzantium in rebellion against Emperor Phokas[482]. His birth date range is estimated on the obvious assumption that he was adult at the time of the rebellion in 610, but still sufficiently young not to have been married. Theophanes records that "Heraclio patricio Africæ duci Heraclium filium et Gregoræ patricii…filium Nicetam" rebelled against Emperor Phokas[483]. Theophylactus confirms his parentage when he names "Heraclius Heracli Augusti pater" when recording his military campaigns[484]. He succeeded in 610 as Emperor HERAKLIUS. The Continuator of Isidor's Historia Gothorum, Wandalorum, Sueborum records the coronation of "Eraclius" and his reign of 30 years[485]. Emperor Heraklius instituted the themata, military administrative units of Asia Minor, from [619], named after θέμα [troop division], initially Armeniakon, Anatolikon, Opsikion and Karavisian (of the Fleet), each of which was governed by a strategos. Theophanes records the death in March "indictione decima quarta" of "imperator Heraclius" from "hydropis morbo" after reigning for 30 years and ten months[486]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Heraclius Magnus" was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[487].

m firstly (7 Oct 610) FABIA, daughter of ROGATUS AFRIS & his wife --- (-Constantinople 12 Aug 612, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). Leo Grammaticus records that "Heraclius" was crowned with "sponsa eius Fabia, quod nomen mutatum est in Eudociam, Augusta"[488]. She was named EVDOKIA from her coronation. Theophanes names "Eudocia Rogati Afri filia" as the betrothed ("desponsa", although the word is used to mean wife in a later passage quoted below) of Heraklius, but adds that she soon died at Constantinople and was buried "in imperiali monasterio…Novæ pœnitentiæ", a later passage dating her death to 14 Aug in the same year as the birth of her son Constantinus[489]. Theophanes records that "desponsa…Eudocia" was installed as "augusta" when Heraklius was crowned emperor[490]. Theophanes records that "Augusta" died in the same year that he son was born[491]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Fabia, uxor Heraclii" was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[492]. Cedrenus records that "alteram [filiam] Charito" married "Germano duci"[493].

m secondly (614) MARTINA, daughter of MARTINUS & his wife Maria (-after [641/42]). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records the marriage of "Heraclius" and "Mariæ sororis filiam Martinam…Martino patrem natam", adding that such a marriage was "contra ius omne ac Romanorum leges"[494]. Cedrenus refers to the ermperor´s "incestissimis nuptiis" with "consobrina sua Martina"[495]. The Latin translation of this passage is inaccurate as Helena is called "ανεψιας" in the Greek original, more precisely translated as "neptis". Zonaras names Heraclius´s second wife as "Martina vero fratris filia"[496]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian also records that Emperor Heraklius married "Martine fille de son frère"[497]. Theophanes records that the marriage of "Heraclius" and "Martinam…augustam" was announced, dated to the third year of his reign, but makes no mention either of the blood relationship between the two or of Martina´s parentage[498]. Paulus Diaconus names Martina as mother of "Heraclones eius filius" when recording that he succeeded his father[499]. Martina is unlikely to have been born much later than 600 considering that she gave birth to her first child soon after her marriage. Theophanes records that "Heracleonas Martinæ filius" obtained power four months after the death of his father but that the senate expelled "Heracleonam, matrem eius Martinam et Valentinum" the following year, and that Martina´s tongue was cut out[500]. No other reference has been found to "Valentinus" but the context of this passage suggests that he was Martina´s lover at the time. Cedrenus refers to Martina´s death and burial when recording that her son Herakleonas was buried "cum matre Martina…in dominico monasterio", implying that he was killed soon after being exiled which suggests that his mother shared the same fate[501].

Emperor Heraklius & his first wife had two children:

1. EPIPHANIA [Evdokia] (Jul 611-after [631]). Theophanes records the birth "Iulio mense eadem indictione" of "filiam ex Eudocia…Epiphaniam imperator" and her baptism 15 Aug "in Blachernis" by Patriarch Sergius, in a passage which immediately follows the report of the emperor´s coronation[502]. Theophanes records the coronation 4 Oct "indictione prima" of "Epiphania imperatoris Heraclii filia" as augusta by Patriarch Sergius "in oratorio sancti Stephani, quod in palatio"[503]. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that Emperor Heraklius sent ambassadors to "Turcarum principem" to propose his marriage to "Eudociæ filiæ", dated to 625 in the edition consulted, adding in a later passage that she was sent to "Turcorum principi" for the marriage but that he had been killed "de barbari" and so was sent back, dated to 631 in the edition consulted[504]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Emperor Heraklius sent ambassadors to "le roi du Nord le Khakan" proposing his marriage to "sa fille Eudocie"[505]. Betrothed ([625/31]) to --- "Prince of the Turks" (-killed in battle [631]).

2. KONSTANTINOS [Heraklius] (3 May 612-23 Jun 641, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes records the birth 3 May "indictione 15" of "ex Eudocia imperatori…filius Heraclius iunior, qui et novus Constantinus cognominatus est"[506]. He was crowned as augustus 22 Jan 613[507]. He succeeded in 641 as Emperor KONSTANTINOS III.

- see below.

Emperor Heraklius & his second wife had [ten] children:

3. KONSTANTINOS (615-[631]). Theophanes records the birth of "Constantinus alter ex Martina coniuge imperatori" and his baptism "in Blachernis" by Patriarch Sergius, dated to the year after the emperor´s marriage to Martina was announced[508]. Theophanes records that "Constantinum minorem…Martina genitum" was declared "cæsarem", dated to the second year after his birth ("indictione quinta")[509]. Cæsar. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "duo…filius…totidemque filiæ" of Emperor Heraklius died while the emperor was in Persia, dated 631 in the edition consulted[510]. None of these children are named, but it is possible that the sons were two out of Konstantinos, Flavius and Theodosius. It is likely that cæsar Konstantinos was one of these deceased children as the subsequent passage in the same source records that the emperor´s son Heraklius was created cæsar later in the same year.

4. FLAVIUS [Fabius] (-[631]). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros names "alteri Flavio alteri Theodosio" as the two sons of Emperor Heraklius by his wife "Mariæ sororis filiam Martinam…Martino patrem natam"[511]. Zonaras names "Fabium qui et Heraclonam vocavit et Davidem" as the two sons of Emperor Heraclius by his wife Martina[512]. None of the other sources consulted hint that the son named Flavius/Fabius may have been the same person as the son named Heraklius/Herakleonas. The chronology of the emperor´s marriages suggests that he must have been born from his second marriage. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "duo…filius…totidemque filiæ" of Emperor Heraklius died while the emperor was in Persia, dated 631 in the edition consulted[513]. None of these children are named, but it is possible that the sons were two out of Konstantinos, Flavius and Theodosius.

5. daughter (-[631]). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "duo…filius…totidemque filiæ" of Emperor Heraklius died while the emperor was in Persia, dated 631 in the edition consulted[514].

6. daughter (-[631]). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "duo…filius…totidemque filiæ" of Emperor Heraklius died while the emperor was in Persia, dated 631 in the edition consulted[515].

7. THEODOSIUS (-before 641, maybe [631]). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros names "alteri Flavio alteri Theodosio" as the two sons of Emperor Heraklius by his wife "Mariæ sororis filiam Martinam…Martino patrem natam"[516]. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "duo…filius…totidemque filiæ" of Emperor Heraklius died while the emperor was in Persia, dated 631 in the edition consulted[517]. None of these children are named, but it is possible that the sons were two out of Konstantinos, Flavius and Theodosius. m ([629/30]) his second cousin, NIKE, daughter of NIKETAS Patrikios & his wife ---. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records the marriage of "Nicetæ…eiusdemque filiam Nicen" and "Theodosio" son of Emperor Heraklius "ex Martina", dated to [629/30] from the context[518].

8. HERAKLIUS [Herakleonas] (Lazes province, Persia [622]-after 641). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "ex Martina…filius…Heraclium" was born to Emperor Heraklius in "Lazorum provinciam in Persidem", dated to 622 in the edition consulted, later passages adding that "Heraclium…ex Martina genitum" was created "cæsarem" (dated 631 in the edition consulted) and "consulem" (641)[519]. Zonaras names "Fabium qui et Heraclonam vocavit et Davidem" as the two sons of Emperor Heraclius by his wife Martina[520]. None of the other sources consulted hint that the son named Flavius/Fabius may have been the same person as the son named Heraklius/Herakleonas. Theophanes records that "Heraclonas Martinæ filius" succeeded his half-brother as emperor but was expelled with his mother, recording in a later passage that her tongue was cut and his nose[521]. He succeeded in 641 as Emperor HERAKLEONAS, deposed in 641. Theophanes records that "Heracleonas Martinæ filius" obtained power after his half-brother was killed, but that the senate expelled "Heracleonam, matrem eius Martinam et Valentinam" the following year and that Herakleonas´s nose was cut off[522]. Paulus Diaconus records the accession of "Heraclones eius filius…cum matre Martina" after the death of "Eraclio augusto" and his reign of two years[523]. Cedrenus records that Herakleonas was buried "cum matre Martina…in dominico monasterio", implying that he was killed soon after being exiled[524].

9. DAVID ([Asia Minor] 7 Nov 630-641 or after). Theophanes records the birth 7 Nov "indictione quarta…in oriente" of "Heraclio…David filius"[525]. Zonaras names "Fabium qui et Heraclonam vocavit et Davidem" as the two sons of Emperor Heraclius by his wife Martina[526]. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "Davidem et Marinum alios liberos" were created "cæsares" by Emperor Heraklius[527]. He is recorded as cæsar 4/7 Jul 638, Augustus in 641 and being exiled and mutilated in 641[528].

10. MARINUS (-641 or after). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "Davidem et Marinum alios liberos" were created "cæsares" by Emperor Heraklius[529]. He is recorded as cæsar and being exiled and mutilated in 641[530].

11. AUGUSTINA . The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "Augustinam et Martinam filias" were created "augustas" by Emperor Heraklius[531]. She was appointed Augusta in 638[532].

12. MARTINA . The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "Augustinam et Martinam filias" were created "augustas" by Emperor Heraklius[533]. She was appointed Augusta in 638[534].

Emperor Heraklius had one illegitimate child by a barbarian concubine:

13. IOANNES [Athalric] . The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that Emperor Heraklius gave "Ioannem cognomento Atalaricum naturalem filium ex concubina natum, et Stephanum consobrinum Mariæ sororis filium, et Eutropium, necnon et Ioannem alterum Boni patricii filium…spurium" as hostages to the Persians, dated to 626 in the edition consulted[535]. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "Atalarichum filium et Theodorum magistrum, Theodori fratris filium" rebelled against Emperor Heraklius, dated to [635/37] from the context, adding that Athalric was exiled to "insulam…Principum"[536]. He is named in Nicephoros Breviarum and Sebeos History of Heraclius[537].

KONSTANTINOS III 641, KONSTANS II 641-668, KONSTANTINOS IV 668-685, IUSTINIAN II 685-695, 705-711

KONSTANTINOS [Heraklius], son of Emperor HERAKLIUS & his first wife Eudocia --- (3 May 612-23 Jun 641, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes records the birth 3 May "indictione 15" of "ex Eudocia imperatori…filius Heraclius iunior, qui et novus Constantinus cognominatus est"[538]. He was crowned as augustus 22 Jan 613[539]. Theophanes records that "Constantinus iunior, qui et Heraclius Heraclii filius" was declared "consul" 1 Jan "indictione quinta"[540]. The Continuator of Isidor's Historia Gothorum, Wandalorum, Sueborum records the accession of "Constantinus filius Eraclii Romani imperii"[541]. He succeeded in 641 as Emperor KONSTANTINOS III. Theophanes records that "Constantinus eius filius" held "imperium" for four months after the death of his father but that he died poisoned through the machinations of "Martinæ novercæ, Pyrrhique patriarchæ"[542]. Paulus Diaconus names "Constantius germanus eiusdem alias filius Heraclii" when recording that he succeeded his brother Herakleonas, stating that he reigned for six months[543]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Constantinus nepos Heraclii, pater Constantini Pogonati" (although other sources indicate that Konstantinos was the son, not nepos, of "Heraclii") was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[544].

m ([629/30]) his second cousin, GREGORIA, daughter of NIKETAS & his wife ---. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records that "Heraclium sive Constantinum", son of Emperor Heraklius, married "filiam…Gregoriam…Nicetæ patricio", a later passage recording their marriage, dated to [629/30] from the context, noting that their betrothal had been agreed "adhuc vivo parente illius"[545].

Emperor Konstantinos & his wife had two children:

1. KONSTANS [Heraklius] (7 Nov 630-murdered Siracusa, Sicily 15 Jul 668, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes records the birth 7 Nov "indictione quarta" of "Heraclius Heraclii iunioris Constantini dicti filius, magni Heraclii nepos" and his baptism by Patriach Sergius 3 Nov "in Blachernis"[546]. He succeeded in 641 as Emperor KONSTANS II. Theophanes records that "Constantem Constantini filium et Heraclii nepotem" succeeded after the expulsion of Herakleonas and ruled for 27 years[547]. The Continuator of Isidor's Historia Gothorum, Wandalorum, Sueborum records the accession of "Constans Constantini filius" and his reign of 27 years[548]. Paulus Diaconus records that "Constantinus eiusdem filius" succeeded his father and reigned for 28 years[549]. Theophanes records that Emperor Konstans decided to transfer "imperii sedi" to Rome and left Constantinople for Syracusa in Sicily with "uxorem suam tresque liberos, Constantinum, Heraclium atque Tiberium", dated to [660/63][550]. Paulus Diaconus records that Emperor Constans besieged Benevento but was obliged to withdraw to Naples by Grimoald King of the Lombards[551]. Paulus Diaconus records the death in Sicily of "Constante augusto"[552]. Theophanes records that Emperor Konstans was killed at "Syracusis Siciliæ in balneo…Daphne", dated to [668/70][553]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Emperor Constans was killed "dans le bain par Atréas, gouverneur militaire de Sirmi"[554]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Constantini Pogonati" was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[555]. m FAUSTA, daughter of --- (- ----, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes records that Emperor Konstans decided to transfer "imperii sedi" to Rome and left Constantinople for Syracusa in Sicily with "uxorem suam tresque liberos, Constantinum, Heraclium atque Tiberium", dated to [660/63][556]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Fausta uxor Constantini Pogonati" was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[557]. Emperor Konstans & his wife had three children:

a) KONSTANTINOS (648-14 Sep 685). Theophanes records that Emperor Konstans decided to transfer "imperii sedi" to Rome and left Constantinople for Syracusa in Sicily with "uxorem suam tresque liberos, Constantinum, Heraclium atque Tiberium", dated to [660/63][558]. Paulus Diaconus names "Constantinus, Constantii augusti filius" when recording that he succeeded his father and reigned for 17 years[559]. He was crowned in Apr 654, and succeeded in 668 as Emperor KONSTANTINOS IV. Theophanes records that "Armenium quondam Mizizium" was invested as emperor after the murder of Emperor Konstans II but that "Constantinus" sailed for Sicily after learning of his father´s death and assumed the throne, administering with "fratribus Tiberio et Heraclii"[560]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that, after the murder of Emperor Constans, "le patrice Mejmej…arménien de nation" was installed as emperor, but killed by "Constantin fils de Gosdos", although "le fils de Mejmej" pursued Konstantinos for seven months until he was killed[561]. Theophanes records that Emperor Konstantinos removed "fratres suos Heraclium et Tiberium" from "imperii dignitate" and henceforth ruled only with "Iustiniano filio", dated to [681/83][562]. Theophanes records that Emperor Konstantinos died after reigning for 17 years[563]. m ANASTASIA, daughter of --- (-after 711). Theophanes names "Anastasiam imperatricem augustam" as mother of Emperor Iustinian II[564]. Theophanes names "Anastasiam, patris eius matrem" as being alive when her grandson Tiberius was murdered[565]. Zonaras records that "Tiberius" fled "cum avia materna Anastasia" to "templum Blachernium", was extracted and killed, but makes no comment about Anastasia´s fate[566]. Emperor Konstantinos & his wife had two children:

i) IUSTINIAN ([669/70]-murdered 4/24 Nov 711, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes records that Emperor Konstantinos removed "fratres suos Heraclium et Tiberium" from "imperii dignitate" and henceforth ruled only with "Iustiniano filio", dated to [681/83][567]. He succeeded in 685 as Emperor IUSTINIAN II., deposed in 695, restored 21 Aug 705. Theophanes records that "Iustinianum eius filium" succeeded after the death of "Constantinum" and ruled for 10 years[568]. Paulus Diaconus records that "eius minor filius Iustinianus" succeeded Emperor Konstantinos and reigned for 10 years before being deposed by "Leo" and taking refuge "in Ponto"[569]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that "Aptelmelek" made peace with Emperor Justinian II, under which the latter agreed to send "mille tahégans, un esclave et un cheval" each year and the island of Cyprus would be shared between the Arabs and the Byzantines, but that Justinian raided Cyprus and broke the treaty[570]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that the Arabs defeated the Byzantines "à Pouschérig" in 694[571]. Theophanes records that Emperor Iustinian was expelled by "Leontium tyrannide" who ruled for three years, then "Tiberium qui etiam Apsimarus" who ruled for seven years, before Iustinian was restored for a further six years[572]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Emperor Iustinian was captured and his nose cut, and imprisoned, but escaped after ten years and fled to "le Khakan des Khazirs"[573]. Paulus Diaconus records that "Iustinianus" captured and murdered the usurpers "Leonem quoque et Tiberium" with the help of "Terobelli Bulgarum regis" and recovered his throne[574]. Paulus Diaconus records that "Filippicus" was declared emperor by part of the army, invaded Constantinople and deposed Emperor Iustinian whom he murdered, recording that "Iustinianus cum filio Tiberio" reigned for six years during this second period[575]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that "Philigos" killed "Justinien et son fils Tibère" and seized the throne[576]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Iustinianus minor" was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[577]. m firstly EUDOKIA, daughter of --- (- before [702], bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Eudocia, uxor Iustiniani minoris [alias Rhinotmeti]" was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[578]. m secondly ([702], repudiated 705) THEODORA, sister of --- Khan of the Khazars, daughter of --- (-before 711). Theophanes records that "Iustinianus" married "Chazarorum…Chaganus…germanam sororem Theodoram" but that she was sent back to her brother after Iustinian attempted to regain the imperial throne[579]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Emperor Iustinian married "le Khakan des Khazirs…sa fille", and that the emperor sent for "sa femme et son fils Tibère" after he was restored to the throne[580]. Her original Khazar name is not known. It is assumed that Theodora was her baptismal name on her marriage. Zonaras records that "Theodora mater" predeceased her son[581]. Emperor Iustinian & his first wife had one child:

(a) daughter . Theophanes records that Emperor Iustinian II promised the hand of "propria filia" to "Terbelem Bulgariæ dominum" in return for his help in regaining the throne[582]. As this is recorded in the same paragraph which records Iustinian's second marriage, it is assumed that this daughter was born from the emperor's first marriage.

Emperor Iustinian & his second wife had one child:

(b) TIBERIUS ([703]-murdered 711). Theophanes records that "Theodoram coniugem…eius filium Tiberium" ruled with Emperor Iustinian during his second reign[583]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Emperor Iustinian married "le Khakan des Khazirs…sa fille", and that the emperor sent for "sa femme et son fils Tibère" after he was restored to the throne[584]. Paulus Diaconus records that "Iustinianus cum filio Tiberio" reigned for six years during his second reign[585]. Zonaras records that "filius eius Tiberius" fled "cum avia materna Anastasia" to "templum Blachernium", adding that "Theodora mater" had already died, but was extracted and killed[586]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that "Philigos" killed "Justinien et son fils Tibère" and seized the throne[587].

ii) HERAKLIUS (-after [684/85]). The Liber Pontificalis records that locks of the hair of "domni Iustiniani et Heraclii filiorum…principis" were sent to Pope Benedict II in Rome in [684/85][588].

b) HERAKLIUS (-after [681/83]). Theophanes records that Emperor Konstans decided to transfer "imperii sedi" to Rome and left Constantinople for Syracusa in Sicily with "uxorem suam tresque liberos, Constantinum, Heraclium atque Tiberium", dated to [660/63][589]. Theophanes records that "Armenium quondam Mizizium" was invested as emperor after the murder of Emperor Konstans II but that "Constantinus" sailed for Sicily after learning of his father´s death and assumed the throne, administering with "fratribus Tiberio et Heraclii"[590]. Theophanes records that Emperor Konstantinos removed "fratres suos Heraclium et Tiberium" from "imperii dignitate" and henceforth ruled only with "Iustiniano filio", dated to [681/83][591].

c) TIBERIUS (-after [681/83]). Theophanes records that Emperor Konstans decided to transfer "imperii sedi" to Rome and left Constantinople for Syracusa in Sicily with "uxorem suam tresque liberos, Constantinum, Heraclium atque Tiberium", dated to [660/63][592]. Theophanes records that "Armenium quondam Mizizium" was invested as emperor after the murder of Emperor Konstans II but that "Constantinus" sailed for Sicily after learning of his father´s death and assumed the throne, administering with "fratribus Tiberio et Heraclii"[593]. Theophanes records that Emperor Konstantinos removed "fratres suos Heraclium et Tiberium" from "imperii dignitate" and henceforth ruled only with "Iustiniano filio", dated to [681/83][594].

2. THEODOSIUS (-murdered [659/60]). Theophanes records that "Constans" killed "Theodosium fratrem germanum", dated to [659/60][595]. The source gives no background to the murder. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Emperor Constans "ayant conçu des soupcons contre son frère Théotoride, le fit périr"[596].

H. EMPERORS 695-717

LEONTIUS 695-698, TIBERIUS III 698-705, PHILIPPICUS 711-713, ANASTASIUS II 713-716, THEODOSIUS III 715-717

Two brothers, parents not known:

1. LEONTIUS (-murdered Constantinople [Aug 705/Feb 706]). Strategos of the theme of Anatolikan. He succeeded 695-698 as Emperor LEONTIUS. Theophanes records that Emperor Iustinian was expelled by "Leontium tyrannide" who ruled for three years, then "Tiberium qui etiam Apsimarus" who ruled for seven years, before Iustinian was restored for a further six years[597]. Paulus Diaconus records that "Leo" deposed Emperor Iustinian and reigned for 3 years[598]. Paulus Diaconus records that "Iustinianus" captured and murdered the usurpers "Leonem quoque et Tiberium in medio circo coram omni populo" and recovered his throne[599]. He was executed between Aug 705 and Feb 706[600].

Two brothers, parents not known:

1. TIBERIUS [Apsimarus] (-murdered Constantinople [Aug 705/Feb 706]). He succeeded in 698 as Emperor TIBERIUS III. Theophanes records that Emperor Iustinian was expelled by "Leontium tyrannide" who ruled for three years, then "Tiberium qui etiam Apsimarus" who ruled for seven years, before Iustinian was restored for a further six years[601]. Paulus Diaconus records that "Tiberius" deposed "Leo"[602]. Paulus Diaconus records that "Iustinianus" captured and murdered the usurpers "Leonem quoque et Tiberium in medio circo coram omni populo" and recovered his throne[603]. He was executed between Aug 705 and Feb 706[604]. m ---. The name of Tiberius's wife is not known. Emperor Tiberius & his wife had [two] children:

a) THEODOSIUS (-762 or after). Theophanes names "Theodosius Ephesi episcopus, Apsimari filius" when recording a meeting of bishops during the reign of Emperor Konstantinos V[605]. He is named "Theodosios" in the Vita Stephani iunioris which records that he was one of the iconoclast leaders who was sent by Emperor Konstantinos V to interview Stephanos at Chrysopolis[606].

b) [HERAKLIUS . He is recorded as brother of Theodosius[607], although it is not known whether he was the son of Emperor Tiberius.]

2. HERAKLIUS (-after [704/05]). Theophanes names "Heraclium…germanum fratrem suum", referring to "Absimari", recording that he was sent to govern Cappadocia and, in a later passage, that he fought in Arabia in the sixth year of his brother's reign[608]. Zonaras records that "Apsimarus sive Tiberius" sent "fratrem suum Heraclium…in Orientem contra Agarenos" and that he was victorious[609].

1. NIKEPHOROS . Patrikios. m ---. The name of Nikephoros's wife is not known. Nikephoros & his wife had one child:

a) PHILIPPICUS [Bardanes] (-20 Jan [714]). Theophanes records that Emperor Tiberius sent "Philippicum Nicephori patricii filium" to "Cephaloniam"[610]. Leo Grammaticus names "Philippicum filium Nicephori patricii"[611]. He succeeded in 711 as Emperor PHILIPPICUS. Theophanes records that "Bardanem qui et Philippicus nominabatur" was acclaimed as emperor and deposed and murdered Emperor Iustinian II[612]. Paulus Diaconus records that "Filippicus" was declared emperor by part of the army, invaded Constantinople and deposed Emperor Iustinian whom he murdered, in a later passage naming him "Filippicus qui et Bardanis dictus est" when recording that he reigned for one year and six months before he was deposed by "Anastasius qui et Artemius dictus est", blinded and killed[613]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that "Philigos" killed "Justinien et son fils Tibère" and seized the throne[614]. He was blinded 3 Jun 713. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that "Philigos" was blinded and banished in the second year of his reign[615].

1. ANASTASIUS [Artemios] (-Kynegion 1 Jun 719, bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). He succeeded in 713 as Emperor ANASTASIUS II. Theophanes records that "Artemius…Anastasius cognominatus" deposed Emperor Philippicus[616]. Paulus Diaconus records that "Anastasius qui et Artemius dictus est" deposed, blinded and killed Emperor Philippicus[617]. Paulus Diaconus records that part of the army chose "Theodosium" as emperor on its return from Alexandria on campaign for Emperor Anastasius, and that he defeated the latter in battle[618]. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that Anastasius fled to Nikaia after he was deposed[619]. He is recorded as a cleric in 715, he rebelled in 719 and was executed at Kynegion 1 Jun 719[620]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Anastasius alias Artemius" was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[621]. m --- (bur Constantinople Church of the Holy Apostles). The name of Anastasius's wife is not known. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Anastasii Artemii uxor" was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[622].

1. THEODOSIUS (-717). He succeeded in 716 as Emperor THEODOSIUS III. Paulus Diaconus records that part of the army chose "Theodosium" as emperor on their return from Alexandria on campaign for Emperor Anastasius, and that he defeated the latter in battle[623]. He became a monk[624]. m ---. The name of Theodosius's wife is not known. Theodosius & his wife had one child:

a) son . Theophanes records that the future Emperor Leon III captured "Theodosii filium" at Nikomedia, before negotiating the emperor's abdication at Chrysopolis[625]. He became a monk[626].

Chapter 2. EMPERORS 717-802 (ISAURIAN DYNASTY)

LEON III 717-741

1. LEON "the Isaurian" (Germanikeia [685]-18 Jun 741, bur Mausoleum of Justinian, Church of the Holy Apostles, Constantinople). His parentage is not known. Theophanes records that "Leo Germanicia…Isauria oriundus" succeeded as emperor, adding that he had been transferred to Mesembria in Thrace by Emperor Iustinianus II during his first reign (presumably as part of the colonisation encouraged by the emperor), and was appointed "spatharium" (προτοσπαθάριος, commander of the σπαθαριοδης or sword-bearers, who were part of the imperial bodyguard) by the emperor[627]. Theophanes records that "Conon" was his baptismal name[628]. After a successful military campaign in the Caucasus, Emperor Anastasius II appointed Leon strategos of the Anatolikon, the largest and most powerful of the themes of Asia Minor. After the fall of Emperor Anastasius, Leon rebelled against Emperor Theodosius III, allying himself with Artabasdos (strategos of the theme of Armeniakon, who later married Leo's daughter) and also the Arabs. The Chronicle of Michael the Syrian records that the emperor discovered that "Leon général des Grecs" had been negotiating for support from the Arabs and captured "les parents de Leon" but later released them when Leon threatened "Amoun"[629]. He marched westwards, captured the emperor's son at Nikomedia, and at Chrysopolis negotiated the emperor's abdication and retirement to the monastery of Ephesus[630]. He entered Constantinople and was crowned at Santa Sophia 25 Mar 717 as Emperor LEON III . Paulus Diaconus records the accession of "Leo augustus" after the death of Emperor Theodosius[631]. Within six months the Arabs besieged Constantinople, but Emperor Leon forced the withdrawal of their fleet 15 Aug 718 and Bulgarian troops forced their land army's retreat to Syria[632]. During the following years the Arabs continued their attacks, although on a lesser scale, recapturing Cæsarea after 726 and besieging Nikaia. The emperor agreed an alliance with the Khazars against their common enemy the Arabs, sealed by the marriage in 732 of his son Konstantinos with the daughter of a Khazar Khan[633]. Leon III finally defeated the Arabs at Akroinon, near Amorium in 740. Emperor Leon successfully executed administrative reforms, including the new legal code Ekloga in 726[634], and created new, smaller themata to streamline bureaucracy while reducing the power of potential rivals. The theme of Karavisian was divided into the two themes of Cibyrrheotes (on the southern shore of Asia Minor) and Aegeon Pelagos (the islands in the Aegean sea) some time between 710 and 732. The new theme of Thrakesion, named after the Thracian troops garrisoned there, was split from Emperor Leon's previous theme of Anatolia[635]. The theme of Crete was also created around the same time. Leo's reign was marked by persecution of the Jews, and from 726 the promotion of iconoclasm, a movement which had originated in the eastern part of the empire possibly as a reflection of Islam's rejection of the cult of the image[636]. The unpopularity of iconoclasm, particularly in the western parts of the empire, triggered revolts in Constantinople and even the appointment of an anti-emperor, in the theme of Hellas, whose attempted invasion of Constantinople was crushed by Emperor Leo[637]. Papal opposition to iconoclasm prompted Leon III to confiscate the incomes from the churches of Sicily and Calabria in 731. Pope Gregory III excommunicated all destroyers of images at a synod 1 Nov 731. Emperor Leon retaliated by transferring the religious provinces of Greece and southern Italy from the see of Rome to that of Constantinople[638]. Although Leon left the empire secure from outside enemies, his religious policies created bitter divisions which were to endure for more than a century. Theophanes records his death 18 Jun "quinta indictione" and that he had reigned for 24 years, two months and 25 days[639]. m MARIA, daughter of ---. Her origin is not known. Theophanes records the coronation 15 Oct of "Maria eius uxor" as "Augusta" in the third year of Leon´s reign as emperor[640]. Emperor Leon III & his wife had [two] children:

a) ANNA ([705/10]-after [772]). Theophanes records that "Leo" promised "Anna filia" to "Artabasdum Armenicorum ducem"[641]. Anna must have been several years older than her brother Konstantinos. Assuming her son Niketas was at least in his mid-teens when his father appointed him commander-in-chief of his army in [742/43], Anna could not have been born much later than 710. It is therefore not at all certain that she shared the same mother as her brother Konstantinos. Her marriage was arranged to seal her father's alliance prior to usurping the Byzantine throne. She was banished with her husband and nine children to the monastery of Chora[642]. According to the Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane, thirty years after the rebellion her brother Emperor Konstantinos forced her to return to the monastery of Chora, dig up her husband's bones, place them in her cloak (pallium), and throw them into the so-called tombs of Pelagius, charnel pits, among the bodies of executed criminals[643]. m (betrothed 715, after Mar 717) ARTABASDOS, son of --- (-before [772], bur Chora Monastery). His parentage is not known. Strategos of the theme of Armeniakon. His future father-in-law allied himself with Artabasdos in his bid for the throne, promising him his daughter's hand and the title kouropalates, the third highest honour in the empire, after cæsar and nobilissimus, usually reserved for members of the imperial family. Leon appointed him strategos of the theme of Opsikion. After the accession of his brother-in-law Konstantinos V in 741, Artabasdos rebelled against the new emperor, routed his army in Opsikion and proclaimed himself emperor in 742. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that "Artahuasdus…Nicephorum æque filium suum" was crowned "mense…Maio cum Artahuasdus"[644]. As the declared champion of the cult of images, he gathered support in Constantinople where he was crowned by the patriarch Anastasius. He was supported by the themes of Thrace, Opsikion and Armeniakon, and recognised as emperor by Rome. Konstantinos's army defeated him at Sardis in Lydia in May 743. After Emperor Konstantinos re-entered Constantinople in Nov 743, Artabasdos and his two sons were blinded (a punishment, practised throughout the eastern Mediterranean area during medieval times, inflicted because blindness was considered an impediment to ruling and therefore constituted an effective way of disempowering an opponent short of killing him, although many did succumb as a result of the treatment). Theophanes records that "Artahuasdus cum duobus filiis suis" were captured and blinded[645]. They were banished to the monastery of Chora on the outskirts of Constantinople with his wife and other children[646]. Artabasdos had nine children:

i) NIKETAS (-after Nov 743). The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that "Artahuasdus…Nicetam filium" was appointed "monostrategum" over the theme of Armeniakon[647]. His army was defeated by Emperor Konstantinos in Aug 743 near Modrina before he could regroup with his father. He was blinded on the orders of Emperor Konstantinos V after the latter re-entered Constantinople in Nov 743[648]. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that "Artahuasdus cum duobus filiis suis" were captured and blinded[649].

ii) NIKEPHOROS (-after Nov 743). The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that "Artahuasdus…Nicephorum æque filium suum" was crowned "mense…Maio cum Artahuasdus"[650]. He is named after his brother Niketas by Patriarch Nikephoros[651], implying that Nikephoros was the younger brother. Speck speculates[652] that his appointment as co-emperor in place of Niketas was because Nikephoros was the son of Artabasdos by his wife Anna, Niketas having been born from an earlier marriage. He was blinded on the orders of Emperor Konstantinos V after the latter re-entered Constantinople in Nov 743[653]. Theophanes records that "Artahuasdus cum duobus filiis suis" were captured and blinded[654].

iii) seven other children. Artabasdos was banished with his nine children to the monastery of Chora[655], although the names of these other seven children are not known.

b) KONSTANTINOS (Jul 718-14 Sep 775, bur Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes records that "Leoni principi filius…Constantinus" was born in the third year of his reign as emperor[656]. He was crowned co-emperor by his father at Easter 720. He succeeded his father in 741 as Emperor KONSTANTINOS V "Kopronymos" .

- see below.

c) KOSMO (bur Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles). Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Cosmo et Irene, sorores Caballini" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[657].

d) EIRENE (bur Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles). Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Cosmo et Irene, sorores Caballini" were buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[658].

KONSTANTINOS V 741-775

KONSTANTINOS, son of Emperor LEON III & his wife Maria --- (Sep 718-Strongylon 14 Sep 775, bur Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes records that "Leoni principi filius…Constantinus" was born in the third year of his reign as emperor[659]. He was crowned co-emperor [συμβασιλεύς] by his father at Easter 31 Mar 720. He succeeded his father in 741 as Emperor KONSTANTINOS V "Kopronymos", his nickname "Dung-named" accorded from his allegedly having defecated in the font at the time of his baptism aged 6 months 25 Dec 718[660]. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records his coronation "XIV Kal Iul"[661]. Having left Constantinople on campaign against the Arabs, his brother-in-law Artabasdos revolted and proclaimed himself emperor in Constantinople in 742. Emperor Konstantinos sought refuge in Amorium, the chief city of the theme of Anatolia which supported Emperor Konstantinos along with the Thracian theme, but defeated the anti-emperor at Sardis in Lydia in May 743. Emperor Konstantinos re-entered Constantinople after a short siege 2 Nov 743, and inflicted a terrible revenge against the rebel's supporters. A successful campaigner, he consolidated his position to the east with military victories against the Umayyads, reconquering northern Syria including Germanikeia in 746, routing the Arab fleet at Alexandria the following year, and temporarily recapturing Melitene and Theodosiopolis in 752[662]. The transfer of the capital of the Caliphate from Damascus to Baghdad by the Abbasids reduced the pressure felt by Byzantium from its Arab neighbours. The scene of military pressure switched to the northern frontier of the European part of the empire. Provoked by Konstantinos V's refortification of the area, the Bulgars invaded Byzantium in 756, were defeated 30 Jun 763 at Anchialos on the Black Sea coast, but continued to be a source of military irritation for the remainder of Konstantinos V's reign[663]. Emperor Konstantinos created the theme of Bucellarion in [767] by splitting the powerful theme of Opsikion. A more fanatical iconoclast than his father, he persecuted and tortured his religious opponents. After forbidding the use of images by civil order of an imperial council, Konstantinos summoned a carefully constituted assembly of bishops to issue similar orders in 754. The orders were applied severely, but opposition to iconoclasm did not diminish. The monks and monasteries, at first simply the focus of iconophile opposition, over time became objects of persecution themselves. Monasteries were closed and their confiscated assets transferred to the emperor. In addition, the emperor's fanaticism spread from mere images to the cult of saints and the Virgin Mary, bringing him into opposition with his own religious council[664]. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that Emperor Konstantinos V died during one of his campaigns against the Bulgars, on board ship after landing at the port of Strongylon[665]. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records his death "XVIII Kal Oct" and that he had reigned for 34 years, three months and two days[666]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Leonis Isauri filius, Constantinus, vulgo Caballinus [Καβαλλίνος] dictus" was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[667].

m firstly ([731/32]) CHICHEK, daughter of BIHEROS Khan of the Khazars (-[750/6 Jun 751], bur Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes records the marriage of "Leo imperator…Constantino filio suo" and "filiam Chagani Scytharum principis" and that she was baptised as EIRENE[668]. She is named Chichek in Europäische Stammtafeln, but the primary source which confirms this name (and the name of her father) has not yet been identified. This marriage was arranged by Emperor Leon III to confirm his alliance with the Khazars against their common enemy the Arabs[669]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Irene uxor Constantini Caballini" was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[670].

m secondly ([751/52]) MARIA, daughter of --- (-[751/52]). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records the death of "Mariæ Augustæ", dated to 750 in the edition consulted[671]. Her origin is not known.

m thirdly EVDOKIA, daughter of ---. Theophanes records that "Eudociam tertiam coniugem" was crowned augusta 2 Apr, dated to [768/69][672]. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records the coronation "indictione 7, mense Aprili, sabbato sancto" of "Constantinus Eudociam coniugem" as "augusta", dated to 768 in the edition consulted[673]. She was related to Theodotos Melissenos who was appointed Patriarch of Constantinople by Emperor Leon V in 815[674].

Emperor Konstantinos V & his first wife had one child:

1. LEON (25 Jan 750-8 Sep 780, bur Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes records the birth 25 Jan "tertia…indictione" of "imperatori Constantino ex filia Chagani Chazariæ…filius…Leo"[675]. He was crowned co-emperor by his father in 751. He succeeded his father in 775 as Emperor LEON IV.

- see below.

Emperor Konstantinos V & his third wife had six children:

2. NIKEPHOROS ([753/63]-after 812). Theophanes records that "liberos duos ex [Eudociam]…Christophorum et Nicephorum" were appointed cæsar 2 Apr, dated to [768/69][676]. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records the appointment "indictione 7, mense Aprili, sabbato sancto" of "Constantinus…liberis suis Christophorum et Nicephorum" as "cæsares", dated to 768 in the edition consulted[677]. Theophanes records that in May [776] "Nicephorus cæsar et imperatoris frater" was accused of plotting against the emperor and exiled[678]. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records another plot ("VI Id Sep" in 780) in favour of "Nicephorum" after which he was forcibly tonsured and exiled[679]. Theophanes records that (in Aug 792) Nikephoros was the focus of yet another conspiracy by those angered by the weakness of his nephew in allowing his mother to resume her position as co-empress. This plot was brutally suppressed by Emperor Konstantinos VI, who ordered Nikephoros blinded and his brothers to have their tongues cut out, and all of them to be confined to the palace of Therapia[680]. In Oct 797, another plot was formed and Nikephoros and his brothers went to Hagia Sophia where a crowd gathered, but were then exiled to Athens[681]. He and his brothers were alive under guard on the island of Panormos in 812, when a faction in Constantinople planned to rescue them in order to seize the throne. This time they were exiled to Aphousia in the Sea of Marmara[682].

3. CHRISTOPHOROS ([753/63]- after 812). Theophanes records that "liberos duos ex [Eudociam]…Christophorum et Nicephorum" were appointed cæsar 2 Apr, dated to [768/69][683]. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records the appointment "indictione 7, mense Aprili, sabbato sancto" of "Constantinus…liberis suis Christophorum et Nicephorum" as "cæsares", dated to 768 in the edition consulted[684]. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that Empress Eirene obliged him and his brothers to be tonsured in 780, after the plot in favour of their oldest brother Nikephoros[685]. Theophanes records that, after the plot (in Aug 792), Emperor Konstantinos VI ordered "Christophorum atque Nicetam Anthimimumque atque Eudocium" to have their tongues cut out and confined to the palace of Therapia[686]. A further plot in 799 resulted in him and his four brothers being blinded[687].

4. NIKETAS (763-after 812). Theophanes records that "liberos duos ex [Eudociam]…Christophorum et Nicephorum" were appointed cæsar, and "Nicetæ…eorum fratri" as "nobilissimum", 2 Apr, dated to [768/69][688]. The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records the appointment "indictione 7, mense Aprili, sabbato sancto" of "Constantinus…liberis suis…Niketam" as "nobilissimum", dated to 768 in the edition consulted[689]. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that Empress Eirene obliged him and his brothers to be tonsured in 780, after the plot in favour of their oldest brother Nikephoros[690]. Theophanes records that, after the plot (in Aug 792), Emperor Konstantinos VI ordered "Christophorum atque Nicetam Anthimimumque atque Eudocium" to have their tongues cut out and confined to the palace of Therapia[691]. A further plot in 799 resulted in him and his four brothers being blinded[692].

5. ANTHIMOS ([768/69]-after 812). The History of Patriarch Nikephoros records the birth "indictione deinde septima" of "Constantino filius…Anthimum", dated to 768 in the edition consulted[693]. Theophanes records that Emperor Konstantinos invested "Anthimum" as "nobilissimum"[694]. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that Empress Eirene obliged him and his brothers to be tonsured in 780, after the plot in favour of their oldest brother Nikephoros[695]. Theophanes records that, after the plot (in Aug 792), Emperor Konstantinos VI ordered "Christophorum atque Nicetam Anthimimumque atque Eudocium" to have their tongues cut out and confined to the palace of Therapia[696]. A further plot in 799 resulted in him and his four brothers being blinded[697].

6. EVDOKIMOS (-after 812). Theophanes records that Emperor Leon invested "Eudocimum fratrem suum" as "nobilissimum"[698]. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that Empress Eirene obliged him and his brothers to be tonsured in 780, after the plot in favour of their oldest brother Nikephoros[699]. Theophanes records that, after the plot (in Aug 792), Emperor Konstantinos VI ordered "Christophorum atque Nicetam Anthimimumque atque Eudocium" to have their tongues cut out and confined to the palace of Therapia[700]. A further plot in 799 resulted in him and his four brothers being blinded[701].

7. ANTHOUSA . She is said to have refused an offer from Empress Eirene to share the government of the empire. She lived in the monastery of Homonoia until she died aged 52[702].

LEON IV 775-780, KONSTANTINOS VI 780-797, EIRENE 797-802

LEON, son of Emperor KONSTANTINOS V & his first wife [Eirene] of the Khazars (25 Jan 750-8 Sep 780, bur Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes records the birth 25 Jan "tertia…indictione" of "imperatori Constantino ex filia Chagani Chazariæ…filius…Leo"[703]. He was crowned co-emperor by his father in 6 Jun 751, after the death of his mother[704]. He succeeded his father in 775 as Emperor LEON IV "the Khazar". Though still supporting iconoclasm, his short reign represented a return to religious stability and marked the end of the extreme persecutions of his father[705]. Theophanes records that "Leo filius Constantini" died in Sep after reigning for five years less six days[706]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Leo Chazarus, filius Constantini Caballini" was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[707].

[708]Betrothed (765, contract broken 766) to GISELA of the Franks, daughter of PEPIN "le Bref" King of the Franks & his wife Bertrade [Berta] "au Grand Pied" (757-Chelles 30 Jul 810).

m (betrothed 3 Nov 769, Oratory of St Stephanos, Daphne 17 Dec 769) EIRENE, niece of KONSTANTINOS Sarantapechos [strategos of the theme of Hellas][709], daughter of --- ([750/55]-Lesbos 9 Aug 803, bur Church of Hagia Theotokos, Prinkipo island, transferred to Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles). Theophanes records that "imperatoris Leonis" married "Irene Athenis" 3 Sep and that she was crowned augusta 17 Dec, dated to [769][710]. Originating from iconophile Athens, she venerated images herself. On her husband's death in 780, she became regent for her son, and was recognised as co-empress. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that "Heirene…cum filio suo Constantino" accepted "imperium…VI Id Sep" after the death of Emperor Leon IV[711]. Tribute was exacted from the Slavs of northern Greece in 783, where the theme of Macedonia (consisting mainly of Western Thrace rather than present-day Macedonia, the strategos resided at Adrianople ) was formed in May 784 as part of the policy of resettling ex-Slav territory. From 784, Eirene openly started manoeuvring to re-establish the cult of images. She suffered a setback 31 Jul 786 when the still largely iconoclast army forced the closure of an ecclesiastical council being held at Constantinople to discuss the issue. On the pretext of a campaign against the Arabs, she moved the iconoclast troops to Asia Minor and in May 787 summoned another ecumenical council in Nikaia which declared the return of images. A compromise which pardoned ex-iconoclasts who abjured their heresy was passed, despite opposition from zealot Monachists. Preoccupied with internal problems, the empire suffered severe military defeat at the hands of the Arabs who were able to force financial tribute as the price of peace. Jealous for power, Eirene attempted to impose herself as primary empress in 790, thereby demoting her son to co-emperor, with support from troops of European origin. Her move back-fired, as with support from troops from the theme of Armeniakon her son was acclaimed sole emperor in Oct 790, and Eirene was obliged to leave the imperial palace[712]. Ever manipulating, she effected a return as co-empress in Jan 792. Taking advantage of her son's absence from Constantinople, after he fled to the theme of Anatolikon in May 797 in an attempt to escape his mother's machinations, she declared herself EIRENE sole Empress. In at least one of her Novels, she used the title βασιλεΰς not βαςίλισσα[713]. She ordered the capture of her son, who was confined in the Porphyra and blinded. In an attempt to curry favour, she dissipated the finances of the State with concessions granted to inhabitants of Constantinople and to the monasteries. She brutally suppressed another plot in 799 in favour of her husband's half-brothers. Ambassadors from Pope Leon III brought her a marriage proposal from Emperor Charlemagne but, while they were still in the city awaiting a final answer, Nikephoros assumed power 31 Oct 802[714]. Empress Eirene was exiled to Prinkipo Island, and in Nov 802 to Lesbos where she died the following year. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Irene, uxor Leonis Chazari" was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles[715]. She was later canonised for her efforts in restoring icons.

Emperor Leon IV & his wife had one child:

1. KONSTANTINOS (14 Jan 771-Prinkipo Island [15 Aug 797/before 806][716], bur Constantinople, Monastery of St Euphrosyne). The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that "Heirene…cum filio suo Constantino" accepted "imperium…VI Id Sep" after the death of Emperor Leon IV[717]. He was crowned co-emperor by his father 14 Apr 776. He succeeded his father in 780 as Emperor KONSTANTINOS VI, under the regency of his mother. Even after attaining the age of majority, he was unable to shake his mother's hold on power. However, her conspiracy to have herself declared sole empress failed, and with support from troops from the theme of Armeniakon Konstantinos was acclaimed sole emperor in Oct 790. He conducted a disastrous military campaign against the Bulgars, suffering a humiliating defeat at Markellai in Jul 792 where his principal generals were captured and he was forced to flee. Konstantinos permitted his mother to return as co-empress 15 Jan 792, which triggered another rebellion in favour of his uncle Nikephoros which he brutally repressed. Emperor Konstantinos suffered further loss of support, especially from orthodox monastic zealots, by his repudiation of his first wife and extravagant celebration of his adulterous second marriage. In an attempt to escape his mother's continual plotting, he took refuge in the theme of Anatolikon in May 797. However, during his absence, his mother declared herself sole empress, ordered the capture of Konstantinos, who after being brought back to Constantinople was confined in the Porphyra palace and blinded. He may have died in exile on the island of Prinkipo. Leo Grammaticus records that, shortly after his accession, Emperor Nikephoros befriended Constantine in an attempt to discover the whereabouts of a treasure hidden in the palace[718]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Constantinus, a matre Irene excœcatus, et uxor eius Maria…et duæ filiæ" were buried in "monasterio Cyræ seu Dominæ Euphrosynæ dicto"[719]. Betrothed (781, contract broken 788[720]) to HROTHRUDIS [Rotrud] of the Franks, daughter of CHARLES I King of the Franks & his second wife Hildegardis ([775]-6 Jun 810). Theophanes records that Empress Eirene sent ambassadors to "Carolum Francorum rege" to negotiate the betrothal of "filiæ eius Erythrus" and "filio suo Constantino", dated to 781[721]. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that Empress Eirene sent "Costahim sacellarium et Mamalum primicerium" to "Carolum regem Francorum" to arrange the betrothal of "filiam suam…[et] imperatori Constantino filio suo", in the second year of their joint reign[722]. The betrothal of "Hruodrudem…quæ filiarum eius primogenita" with "Constantino, Græcorum imperatore" is recorded by Einhard[723]. The Annales Fuldenses record the betrothal of "Hruodtrudis filia regis" and "Constantino imperator" in 787[724]. She was given the name ERYTHRO in Greek. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that the betrothal was terminated in the ninth year of Empress Eirene's reign[725]. m firstly (Nov 788, repudiated Jan 795) MARIA, daughter of --- & his wife Hypatia (Amnia, Paphlagonia [770/75]-after 823, bur Constantinople, Monastery of St Euphrosyne). Theophanes records that Empress Eirene terminated the treaty with France and arranged the marriage of "Constantino imperatori filio suo" and "puellam ex Armeniacis…Maria Amnia oriundum"[726]. Zonaras records that Konstantinos married "ex Oriente puellam…ex Armeniaca provincial…Philareti…filiam"[727]. The Vita Philareti by Niketas of Amnia provides more details of Maria´s ancestry, naming Hypatia as eldest daughter of Philaretos, states that she was a widow when the family moved to Constantinople (dated to 788), and was the mother of Maria, Myranthia, Euanthia and Petronas[728]. Theophanes records that her husband took a dislike to her, probably because of the machinations of his mother, and that she was forced to become a nun[729]. She was forced to become a nun by her husband and retired to the monastery on the island of Prinkipo, founded by her mother-in-law, with her two daughters. Theodore the Studite addressed a letter to "Maria basilissa"[730]. She protested at the marriage of her daughter to Emperor Mikhael II in 823[731]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Constantinus, a matre Irene excœcatus, et uxor eius Maria…et duæ filiæ" were buried in "monasterio Cyræ seu Dominæ Euphrosynæ dicto"[732]. m secondly (Constantinople, Palace of St Mamas Sep 795) THEODOTE, sister of SERGIOS hypatos, daughter of --- & his wife Anna --- (780-after 797). A koubikoularia [lady-in-waiting] to Emperor Konstantinos VI's mother Empress Eirene, she became the mistress of Emperor Konstantinos. Theophanes records that Konstantinos crowned "Theodoten cubiculariam" as augusta in Aug and married her in Sep "indictione quarta"[733]. She was a cousin of Theodoros the Stoudite to whom her husband persuaded her to send gold to try to end his opposition to their marriage[734]. She fled Constantinople mid-797 to escape her mother-in-law's plotting, retiring to a monastery where she bore a posthumous son [735]. The validity of this marriage was recognised retrospectively by the Church in Jan 809, a decision which was reversed under Emperor Mikhael Rangabé[736]. Emperor Konstantinos VI & his first wife had two children:

a) EIRENE (-after Jul 796, bur Constantinople, Monastery of St Euphrosyne). Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Constantinus, a matre Irene excœcatus, et uxor eius Maria…et duæ filiæ, nempe Euphrosyna, uxor Michaelis, et eius soror Irene" were buried in "monasterio Cyræ seu Dominæ Euphrosynæ dicto"[737]. Theodore the Studite addressed a letter to "Irenæ et Euphrosynæ monialibus", although the text does indicate their parentage[738]. He also addresses several letters to "Euphrosynæ præpositæ", which suggests that Eirene was no longer alive and had died early during the time when they were both nuns.

b) EUPHROSYNE (790-after 836, bur Constantinople, Monastery of St Euphrosyne). Genesius records that "Michael imperator" married "Euphrosynam Constantini filiam"[739]. Niketas Choniates names the two wives of Emperor Mikhael I as "Thecla et Euphrosyne"[740]. Theophanes Continuatus records that, from childhood, she lived as a nun in a convent on the island of Prinkipo[741]. Theodore the Studite addressed a letter to "Irenæ et Euphrosynæ monialibus", although the text does indicate their parentage[742]. Her marriage was controversial because she was a nun. Theophanes Continuatus records that Emperor Theophilus obliged "Eurphrosynam novercam" to return to the monastery she had left to marry his father[743]. She gave food, drink and clothing to Mikhael Synkellos when he was imprisoned in the Praitorion by Emperor Theophilos in 836[744]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Constantinus, a matre Irene excœcatus, et uxor eius Maria…et duæ filiæ, nempe Euphrosyna, uxor Michaelis, et eius soror Irene" were buried in "monasterio Cyræ seu Dominæ Euphrosynæ dicto"[745]. m (823) as his second wife, Emperor MIKHAEL II "the Amorian", son of --- (Amorion, Phrygia [775]-2 Oct 829, bur Constantinople, Church of the Holy Apostles).

Emperor Konstantinos VI and his second wife had two children:

c) LEON (Brusa 7 Oct 796-1 May 797). Theophanes records the birth in Oct "quintæ indictionis" of "imperator…filium…Leonem…ex coniugem" and his death 1 May in the following year[746].

d) son (posthumously [797/98]-after 802). He is referred to in a letter of Theodoros the Stoudite dated 808[747].

Chapter 3. EMPERORS 802-813 (DYNASTIES of NIKEPHOROS and RANGABE)

A. NIKEPHOROS

NIKEPHOROS I 802-811, STAVRAKIOS 811-812

Two possible brothers, parents not known:

1. STAVRAKIOS (-3 Jun 800). Patrikios. Theophanes records that Empress Eirene sent "Stauracium patricium et celeris cursus logothetam" in command of an army against "Sclavinorum nationes" and that he returned victorious in Jan "indictione septima", stating in an earlier passage that he was a eunuch[748]. Theophanes records that in Sep "ineiunte indictione 10" the empress sent "Stauracio patricio et publici cursus logotheta" to Thrace to gather support for her[749]. Theophanes records the rebellion in Feb "indictione octava" of "Stauracius scholariorum et excubitorum unique ductorum"[750].

2. [NIKEPHOROS ([740/50]-killed in battle near Pliska 26 Jul 811). He was a native of Cappadocia[751], described as a swineherd by his opponents[752]. He was said to be descended from Gabbala, a Christian Arab king who fled with his companions from Caliph Omar to settle in Cappadocia and retain his faith[753]. His birth date is estimated from the supposed birth date of his daughter Prokopia. The fact that he named his son Stavrakios suggests that he was the brother of Stavrakios patrikios, but no confirmation has been found that this is correct in any of the primary sources so far consulted. In particular, no information has been found linking Stavrakios to Cappadocia. He rebelled against Empress Eirene 31 Oct 802, assuming power after surrounding the palace in Constantinople. He was crowned as Emperor NIKEPHOROS I 31 Oct 802 in Hagia Sophia[754]. He re-established the financial stability of the empire, reversing the policy of donations and fiscal concessions pursued by his predecessor Empress Eirene. He pursued the resettlement of the theme of Macedonia with immigrants from Asia Minor as a means of suppressing the native Slav population. Following successful conquests of territory, new themes were created in Peloponnesus in [802] and Kefalonia in [809]. Arab incursions into imperial territory followed the suspension by Emperor Nikephoros in 803 of the payment of annual tribute to the Caliphate, but the emperor was forced to make peace with Harun al-Rashid in 806 and restore the payments[755]. Emperor Nikephoros was an iconophile, emphasising this by the marriage of his son to a relative of his predecessor Empress Eirene, but his installation of the historian Nikephoros as Patriarch of Constantinople in 806 caused opposition among the zealots. The retrospective recognition of the validity of the second marriage of Emperor Konstantinos VI in Jan 809 caused an open break with the monks of the Studion[756]. After the Bulgar sack of Sardika [Sofija] in 809, Emperor Nikephoros captured the Bulgar capital Pliska in 811. The Annales Fuldenses record that Emperor Charlemagne sent "Haitonem Basilensem episcopus et Hug comitem Turonicum et Aio Langobardum de Aquileia" as missi to Constantinople in 811 to confirm the peace "cum Niceforo"[757]. After marching south-west, the emperor's forces were ambushed 26 Jul 811 by Bulgar troops led by Krum Khan of the Bulgars, and the emperor was killed[758]. Krum displayed the emperor's head on a pole for several days and then had it made into a drinking cup[759]. m ---. The name of Emperor Nikephoros I's wife is unknown. Emperor Nikephoros I & his wife had two children:

a) STAVRAKIOS (-11 Jan 812, bur Monastery of the Holy Trinity, or Monastery of Ta Hebraïka, Constantinople). Theophanes records the coronation in Dec "indictione duodecima" of "Nicephorus filium suum Stauracii"[760]. Theophanes records that "filius Nicephori Stauracius" was seriously wounded in the battle in which his father was killed[761]. He escaped to Adrianople and was proclaimed in 811 as Emperor STAVRAKIOS, and taken on a litter to Constantinople. As he was dying from his wounds, he abdicated after his brother-in-law was proclaimed emperor 2 Oct 811. He became a monk and died soon after. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Stauracius Imp. et Theophano, uxor eius" were buried in "monasterio S. Trinitatis, Stauracii cognominato"[762]. m (20 Dec 807) THEOPHANO, daughter of --- Sarantapechos [from Athens] & his wife --- (-after 812, bur Monastery of the Holy Trinity). The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that "XIII Kal Ian" the emperor married "Stauracium filium suum" to "Theophanam Atheniensem, agnatam B. Heirenæ" after "multam electionem virginum", although she was betrothed to and living with another man at the time[763]. Her precise relationship with Empress Eirene is not known. She opposed the accession of her brother-in-law Mikhael Rangabé as emperor in 811, hoping to seize power herself[764]. She became a nun and founded the monastery of Ta Hebraïka where her husband was buried[765]. Emperor Konstantinos VII's De Ceremoniis Aulæ records that "Stauracius Imp. et Theophano, uxor eius" were buried in "monasterio S. Trinitatis, Stauracii cognominato"[766].

b) PROKOPIA ([770/75] -after 813). The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records "Procopiam sororem suam", referring to Stavrakios, and "Michaelem sororis suæ maritum"[767]. Her birth date range is estimated based on the birth of her eldest son in [792/93]. According to the Chronicle of 813, she was suspected of poisoning her brother to enable her husband to become emperor[768], but this is unlikely to be correct as her husband seized power while her brother was still alive. She was crowned Augusta in the triklinos of the Augustaion 12 Oct 811[769]. She is said to have been the dominant person in deciding affairs of state[770]. She accompanied her husband on campaign against the Bulgars but her presence aroused discontent among the troops. She opposed her husband's wish to abdicate after his defeat. Theophanes Continuatus records that, after Leon V was proclaimed emperor, Prokopia fled with her husband and children to the church of the Theorokos, known as Pharos, separated from her husband and was confined to a monastery[771]. m (before 793) MIKHAEL, son of THEOPHILAKTOS droungarios (commander of a droungos [body of infantry]) in the Dodekanes & his wife --- ([770]-Prote 11 Jan 844, bur Island of Prote, transferred to Monastery of Satyros). He was appointed kouropalates by his father-in-law. He succeeded as Emperor MIKHAEL I in 811[772].

B. RANGABE

1. RANGABE . m ---. The name of Rangabe´s wife is not known. Rangabe & his wife had one child:

a) THEOPHYLAKTOS (-after [780]). Theophanes names "Bardas nuper Armeniacorum dux, Constantinus vicarii spatharius et excubitorum domesticus, Theophylactus Rangabe filius et Duodecim insularum drungarius" as conspirators against Emperor Leon IV in favour of his half-brother Nikephoros (in 780) and records their exile[773]. Droungarios (commander of a droungos [body of infantry]) in the Dodekanes. m ---. The name of Theophylaktos´s wife is not known. Theophylaktos & his wife had one child:

i) MIKHAEL ([770]-Prote 11 Jan 844, bur Island of Prote, transferred to Monastery of Satyros). The Vita Ignatii names Mikhael as son of Theophylaktos[774]. He was appointed kouropalates by his father-in-law. He succeeded as Emperor MIKHAEL I in 811[775].

- see below.

MIKHAEL I 811-813

MIKHAEL, son of THEOPHYLAKTOS & his wife --- ([770]-Prote 11 Jan 844, bur Island of Prote, transferred to Monastery of Satyros). The Vita Ignatii names Mikhael as son of Theophylaktos[776]. He was appointed kouropalates by his father-in-law. The army and senate, worried by the instability threatened by the expected death of Emperor Stavrakios, proclaimed him 2 Oct 811 as Emperor MIKHAEL I, crowned later the same day at Hagia Sophia by patriarch Nikephoros after signing a document concerning the faith and promising not to persecute Christians or use violence against clergy or monks[777]. Theophanes Continuatus records that "Michael…Curopalata…gener Nicephori, Rangabæ ortus prosapia" was crowned emperor in Oct[778]. A weak emperor, his short reign was characterised by distributions of money to the army, at court and to the clergy. He was an iconophile, recalled the monks of Studion from exile, and reversed the decision of 809 recognising the marriage of Emperor Konstantinos VI[779]. Byzantine ambassadors finally recognised Charlemagne's title as "Emperor" at Aix-la-Chapelle 812, from which time it appears that the Byzantine emperors more frequently used the title Βασιλεύς Ρωμαίων ["Roman Emperor"], presumably to distinguish themselves from the emperor in the west[780]. Rejecting an offer of peace from Krum Khan of the Bulgars, his forces suffered a crushing defeat 22 Jun 813 at Versinikia against the Bulgars[781], which led to Emperor Mikhael's deposition 11 Jul 813 by Leon "the Armenian", strategos of the Anatolikon theme, who succeeded as Emperor Leon V. Theophanes Continuatus records that he yielded the throne without a struggle to avoid bloodshed, fled with his wife and children to the church of Theotokos, and was exiled to a monastery on the island of Prote where he became a monk as ATHANASIOS, died 11 Jan "mundi anno 6032" and was buried in the church (on the island)[782].

m (before 793) PROKOPIA, daughter of NIKEPHOROS [later Emperor NIKEPHOROS I] & his wife --- ([770/75]-after 813). The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records "Procopiam sororem suam", referring to Stavrakios, and "Michaelem sororis suæ maritum"[783]. Her birth date range is estimated based on the birth of her eldest son in [792/93]. According to the Chronicle of 813, she was suspected of poisoning her brother to enable her husband to become emperor[784], but this is unlikely to be correct as her husband seized power while her brother was still alive. She was crowned Augusta in the triklinos of the Augustaion 12 Oct 811[785]. She is said to have been the dominant person in deciding affairs of state[786]. She accompanied her husband on campaign against the Bulgars but her presence aroused discontent among the troops. She opposed her husband's wish to abdicate after his defeat. Theophanes Continuatus records that, after Leon V was proclaimed emperor, Prokopia fled with her husband and children to the church of the Theorokos, known as Pharos, separated from her husband and was confined to a monastery[787].

Emperor Mikhael I & his wife had five children:

1. THEOPHYLAKTOS ([792/93]-15 Jan 849, bur Island of Prote). The Vita Ignatii names (in order) Theophylaktos, Stavrakios, Niketas as three of the five children of Emperor Mikhael[788]. He was crowned emperor by patriarch Nikephoros 25 Dec 811 at Hagia Sophia. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that his father approached Emperor Charles I (Charlemagne) about a marriage for "Theophylactum filium suum"[789]. Theophanes Continuatus records that "cum eo" (indicating ex-Emperor Mikhael I) "Eustratius eius filius" was tonsured (indicating from this passage that Theophylaktos adopted the name EUSTRATIOS) with his parents and castrated on the orders of Emperor Leon V, stating that he was about twenty years old, died 15 Jan "anni 6037" five years after his father, and was buried in the church (on the island of Prote)[790]. It is assumed that this passage relates to Theophylaktos, although the text does not make the connection expressly.

2. STAVRAKIOS (793-[811/13]). The Vita Ignatii names (in order) Theophylaktos, Stavrakios, Niketas as three of the five children of Emperor Mikhael, adding that Stavrakios died young while his father was still emperor[791].

3. NIKETAS (Constantinople[797/98]-23 Oct 877, bur Church of the Archangel Michael). The Vita Ignatii names (in order) Theophylaktos, Stavrakios, Niketas as three of the five children of Emperor Mikhael[792]. Theophanes Continuatus records that "Nicetas quoque" (in the sentence directly following the one which describes the fate of Eustratios, son of ex-Emperor Mikhael I, so implying that Niketas was a younger son of the ex-emperor), who had as an adolescent administered "Icanatorum præfecturam", was tonsured, adopting the name IGNATIOS, was castrated on the orders of Emperor Leon V, was later installed as Patriarch of Constantinople, and many years later was buried "in monasterio quod Satyri vocant"[793]. He was installed as Patriarch of Constantinople in 847 by Empress Theodora. He was deposed 23 Oct 858 by Bardas, chief adviser of Emperor Mikhael III whom he had excommunicated, because of his immoral way of life and exiled to the island of Terebinthos where he was tortured. He was taken to the Noumera prison, and in Aug 859 exiled to the island of Mitylene, returning to Terebinthos in Feb 860. He was recalled as patriarch 26 Sep 867 by Emperor Basileios I. The Life of Ignatios was written in the 10th century by Niketas David, Bishop of Dadybra in Paphlagonia, known as Niketas Paphlagon.

4. GEORGIO . The Vita Ignatii names (in order) Georgio and Theophano as the two daughters of Emperor Mikhael, adding that they became nuns[794]. Either she or her sister assisted victims of the persecution of iconophiles during the reign of Emperor Theophilos (829-842)[795].

5. THEOPHANO . The Vita Ignatii names (in order) Georgio and Theophano as the two daughters of Emperor Mikhael, adding that they became nuns[796].

Chapter 4. EMPEROR 813-820 (ARMENIAN DYNASTY)

The family origins of Emperor Leon V have been the subject of debate, both regarding his remote ancestry and his more immediate parentage. The distant ancestry of the family of Emperor Leon V is hinted at by Georgius Monachus who records that Leon was "ex Armenia…oriundus…ex Assyriorum gentis…natus…ex Sennacherib…sobole…qui cum imperio olim Assyriis præfuit"[797]. This passage appears to have provided the basis on which Theophanes Continuatus states that it is said that Leon was from Armenia "genus partim ex Assyris partim ex ipsis Armeniis propagatum fuit"[798]. These alleged Assyrian antecedents of Emperor Leon V were discussed in detail by Adontz[799]. He quotes biblical, other pre-Christian era sources, and Armenian legends in an attempt to assess the likelihood that Leon descended from Sennecherim, whose reign as Assyrian king is dated to the end of the 7th century B.C. Adontz also discusses Emperor Leon´s more recent Armenian ancestry, but manages to conclude that "l´empereur Léon V descendait de la famille princière arménienne des Arzrounides. Cela est certain" without speculating on a precise line of royal descent[800]. It is true that, if it is decided that Leon descended from Armenian royal stock, the tradition of Assyrian ancestry follows as a matter of course. This would be consistent with Armenian belief that their early medieval royal dynasties descended from Assyrian exiles. It is also true that the names of Leon´s known immediate family members are typically Armenian. However, Adontz does not appear to consider the possibility that either the emperor or his father may have risen through the ranks from relatively obscure, at least non-royal, origins. Genesius records Emperor Leon´s father as having held the Byzantine title patrikios[801]. This confirms his elevated position in the Byzantine administrative hierarchy. However, the title could presumably have been granted as a reward for successful military service (under Emperor Konstantinos VI, who also had strong Armenian family connections, see above), rather than in recognition of a royal family background. If Emperor Leon had been closely related to the Armenian kings, it is likely that the contemporary sources which have provided details. As it is, they at an illustrious ancestry with the oblique references which are quoted above. An alternative perspective is provided by Jenkins, who suggests[802] that "Assyrians" in fact meant "Syrians" and that this alleged ancestry was suggested by Emperor Leon's religious opponents, the iconophiles as a means of denigrating the emperor. Whatever the truth of the situation, the data now available in surviving primary sources is insufficient to be conclusive about any of these hypotheses. However, it seems clear that Emperor Leon´s ancestry is far less "certain" than Adontz suggests.

1. BARDAS . Theophanes names "Bardas nuper Armeniacorum dux, Constantinus vicarii spatharius et excubitorum domesticus, Theophylactus Rangabe filius et Duodecim insularum drungarius" as conspirators against Emperor Leon IV in favour of his half-brother Nikephoros (in 780) and records their exile[803]. same person as…? BARDAS (-killed in battle Markellai 20 Jul 792). Patrikios. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that "Michael magistratus, Lachanodraco et Bardas patricius ac Stephanus protospatharius…" among those killed in battle "XII Kal Aug", in the second year of the reign of Emperor Konstantinos VI (792), at "castrum Marcellorum" in Thrace against the Bulgars[804]. same person as…? BARDAS . Patrikios. Genesius names "Leo…imperator, Bardæ quidam patricii filius, sed genus ducens ex Armenia"[805]. It is not certain that these three references are to the same person but it looks likely. In particular, it appears probable that only one individual of the name Bardas would have held the dignity of patrikios at any one time. m --- (-after 820). The name of Bardas´s wife is not known. Theophanes Continuatus records that "Leonem…eius mater oblata" supposedly had a vision in which the Patriarch threatened her son if he continued attacking icons and pleaded with him to change his policy[806]. Theophanus Continuatus records that, after her son was murdered, Leon´s mother was sent to the monastery of the Despotai with Leon´s widow[807]. Bardas & his wife had one child:

a) [KONSTANTINOS . Theophanes names "…Constantinus spatharius et imperatoris protostrator, Bardanis patricii filius…" among the leading nobles involved in a rebellion against Emperor Konstantinos V (in 766), and may have been one of those recorded as having been blinded and sent into exile[808]. Theophanes names "Bardas nuper Armeniacorum dux, Constantinus vicarii spatharius et excubitorum domesticus, Theophylactus Rangabe filius et Duodecim insularum drungarius" as conspirators against Emperor Leon IV in favour of his half-brother Nikephoros (in 780) and records their exile[809]. It is not known whether "patricii Bardanis" (Bardanes), father of Konstantinos, was the same person as patrikios Bardas, the father of Emperor Leon V. The answer depends on the possible interchangeability of the names Bardas and Bardanes (it appears from the two quotes from Theophanes that they are different grammatical forms of the same proper noun), although the unlikelihood of two different persons with such similar names each bearing the same title at the same time suggests that they might inidicate the same person.]

b) LEON "the Armenian" (-murdered Constantinople 24 Dec 820). Genesius names "Leo…imperator, Bardæ quidam patricii filius, sed genus ducens ex Armenia"[810]. He succeeded in 813 as Emperor LEON V.

- see below.

The precise relationship between the following person and Emperor Leon V is not known:

1. GREGORIOS "Pterotos", son of --- (-executed [822/23]). Theophanes Continuatus records that "Gregorius Pterotus…Leonis imperatoris consobrinus", exiled on the island of Skyros after the emperor's death, joined the rebellion of Thomas the Slav who appointed him commander of a force of 10,000 at the siege of Constantinople[811]. The same source records that, judging Thomas incompetent, Gregorios began negotiations with Emperor Mikhael II and led part of the army to attack Thomas, although the latter defeated, captured and executed Gregorios [812]. m ---. Theophanes Continuatus records that Gregorios's wife and children were held in custody by Emperor Mikhael II after he joined the rebellion of Thomas the Slav[813]. Gregorios & his wife had --- children:

a) children . Theophanes Continuatus records that Gregorios's wife and children were held in custody by Emperor Mikhael II after he joined the rebellion of Thomas the Slav[814].

The following individual was also a possible relative of Emperor Leon V but the precise relationship is not known:

1. BARDANES [Vardan] "the Turk/Turkos" (-after 813). Bryennios is described as the son of "Tourkos" and cousin of Emperor Leon V in the Vita Ioannicii[815], but it is not known whether this means that Bardanes Turkos was the brother of Bardas or whether "cousin" indicates a more remote relationship than first cousin. Of Armenian origin. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane records that Emperor Konstantinos VI sent "Bardanio patricio et scholarum domestico" in 796 to bring the hegoumenos of Sakkoudion to Constantinople[816]. Strategos of the theme of Anatolikon. Genesius records that "Bardanio patricio, cui Turcus cognomen" was "orientis themati præfectus"[817]. Theophanes Continuatus records that "ducem Bardanium cognomento Turcum" governed "quinque Orientalium thematum", but rebelled (in Jul 803)[818]. He marched into Bithynia, en route for Nikomedeia, but was met by a large force sent by Emperor Nikephoros. He withdrew to Malagina and asked for forgiveness. Genesius records that "Bardanio patricio, cui Turcus cognomen" was allowed to withdraw to his property on the island of Prote[819]. Theophanes Continuatus records that he then went to Kios in Bythinia where he was tonsured, before returning to Prote where he assumed the name SABBAS and lived the life of an ascetic, but in [803/04] was blinded by agents sent by the emperor[820]. m DOMENIKA, daughter of ---. Theophanes Continuatus records that "Dominicam coniugem cum filia liberisque" were confined to a monastery after her husband was exiled[821]. Bardanes & his wife had [---] children:

a) daughter . Theophanes Continuatus records that "Dominicam coniugem cum filia liberisque" were confined to a monastery after her father was exiled[822]. The curious expression "…cum filia liberisque" suggests that Bardanes's daughter had some different status from his older children. This may have been because she was the oldest child, and the only one who was no longer an infant. In addition, it is possible that she was born from an earlier marriage, maybe considerably older than her half-siblings.

b) sons . Theophanes Continuatus records that "Dominicam coniugem cum filia liberisque" were confined to a monastery after their father was exiled[823]. It is not known how many "liberisque" there may have been.

c) [BRYENNIOS. The Vita Ioannicii names him as son of "Tourkos", and cousin of Emperor Leon V[824]. There is some doubt that Bryennios was the son of Bardanes as the latter and all his children were enclosed in a monastery when he fell from grace.]

LEON V 813-820

LEON "the Armenian", son of BARDAS & his wife --- (-murdered Constantinople 24 Dec 820). Genesius records Leon´s immediate ancestry, naming "Leo…imperator, Bardæ quidam patricii filius, sed genus ducens ex Armenia"[825]. Genesius records that Leon grew up at Pidra in the theme of Anatolikon[826]. Theophanes Continuatus records that Leon served under "ducem Bardanium cognomento Turcum", who governed "quinque Orientalium thematum", but deserted to Emperor Nikephoros after Bardanes rebelled (in Jul 803) and was appointed commander of the foederati, defeating the Arabs in many encounters[827]. According to Symeon Magister, Leo was "homo statura pusillus" and therefore called "Chamæleon"[828]. The Anastasii Historia Ecclesiastica ex Theophane<