v1.1 Updated 16 December 2009

 

 

VENICE

 

 

RETURN TO CONTENTS

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

INTRODUCTION. 1

Chapter 1.            EARLY DOGES 726-831 (IPATO, MONEGARIO, GALBAIO, della ANTENORI) 2

Chapter 2.            DOGES 810-932, 939-942 (PARTIZIPAZIO, TRADONICO, TRIBUNO) 4

Chapter 3.            DOGES 932-939, 942-991 (CANDIANO, MENIO) 7

Chapter 4.            DOGES 976-978, 991-1026, 1031 (ORSEOLO) 11

Chapter 5.            DOGES 1026-1084 (CENTRANICO/BARBOLANO, FLABANICO, CONTARINI, SILVIO) 16

Chapter 6.            DOGES 1084-1192  (FALIER, MICHIELI, POLANI, MOROSINI, ZIANI, MASTROPIERO) 18

Chapter 7.            DOGES 1192-1253  (DANDOLO, ZIANO, TIEPOLO, MOROSINI) 22

Chapter 8.            DOGES 1253-1356  (ZENO, TIEPOLO, CONTANNI, DANDOLO, GRADENIGO, ZORZI, SORANZO, FALIER) 26

Chapter 9.            DOGES 1356-1423  (DOLFIN, CELSI, CORNARO, CONTARINI, MOROSINI, VENIER, STENO, MOCENIGO) 29

 

 

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

Venice was ruled by a series of dukes ("dux" in Latin, which was transformed into "Doge" in the Venetian dialect), each of whom was elected, normally for life, from among the noblemen of the city.  The first Doge was elected in 726 following a revolt against Byzantine rule.  Between the early 8th century and the early 15th century, Doges were chosen from around 40 different noble Venetian families.  Venetian influence spread throughout the Adriatic and eastern Mediterranean area, largely through the city´s commercial and trading interests.  During the 12th and 13th centuries, the Doges of Venice ruled large parts of Dalmatia and Croatia, and claimed the ducal title over these areas, although in the case of Croatia this was challenged by the kings of Hungary.  Many of the doges married into other noble families in the Balkan region, which leads to some interesting dynastic connections.  This document shows information on the families of each successive Doge, divided into successive chronological chapters.  In most cases, the reconstructions are brief and incomplete, but this is all that has proved possible so far on the basis of the primary sources which have been consulted. 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 1.    EARLY DOGES 726-831 (IPATO, MONEGARIO, GALBAIO, della ANTENORI)

 

 

1.         ORSO (-737).  From Heraclea, he was chosen "dux" (transformed into "Doge" in the Venetian dialect) of Venetia in 726 following a revolt against Byzantine rule, triggered mainly by a reaction against the iconoclasm of Emperor Leo III.  Although Byzantine rule was soon re-established, Orso remained as Doge, with the imperial title "hypatos", his descendants adopting the surname "Ipato" in honour of this title[1].  The Chronicon Venetum records that "Ursus dux" ruled for 11 years and 5 months[2].  He was succeeded by five "magistri militum," named (in order) "Leo…Felix cognomento Cornicula…Deusdedi filius Ursonis…Iubianus nomine, Ypatus"[3], whose rule lasted one year each.  m ---.  The name of Orso´s wife is not known.  Orso & his wife had one child: 

a)         DEODATO Ipato (-755).  The Chronicon Venetum names "Deusdedi filius Ursonis", when recording that he was the third of the five "magistri militum" who succeeded his father in turn[4].  He was elected Doge in 742.  He transferred his seat of government from Heraclea to Malamocco.  He was deposed and blinded by his successor[5]. 

 

 

2.         GALLA (-756 or after).  The Chronicon Venetum records that he deposed and blinded his predecessor, succeeding as Doge in 755, but was deposed and blinded in his turn in 756[6]. 

 

 

3.         DOMENICO "Monegario" (-764 or after).  The Chronicon Venetum records that "Dominicum cognomento Monegarium" deposed and blinded his predecessor in 756, but was deposed and blinded in his turn in 764[7]. 

 

 

1.         MAURIZIO Galbaio[8] (-787).  He was elected Doge 764.  From the town of Heraclea[9], he claimed descent from Emperor Galba.  He founded the cathedral of St Peter, and the associated bishopric, on the island of Olivolo.  He associated his son with him in the Dogeship in 778[10].  m ---.  The name of Maurizio´s wife is not known.  Maurizio & his wife had one child: 

a)         GIOVANNI Galbaio (-after 804).  The Chronicon Venetum names "Iohannes Mauricii filius"[11].  Associated by his father in the Dogeship in 778.  He was elected Doge in 787 to succeed his father.  He associated his son with the Dogeship in 796.  He was deposed 804 by a popular uprising triggered by dissatisfaction with his pro-Byzantine policy.  m ---.  The name of Giovanni´s wife is not known.  Giovanni & his wife had one child: 

i)          MAURIZIO Galbaio (-after 796).  The Chronicon Venetum names "sibi filius [=Iohannes] Mauricius nomine", when recording his father's association of him in the Dogeship[12]. 

 

 

Three brothers:

1.         OBELERIO degli Antenori (-831).  He was elected Doge in 804.  He paid homage to Emperor Charlemagne at Aachen in late 805[13].  A Byzantine fleet anchored off Venice in 809, attacked a Frankish flotilla based at Comacchio but retired beaten to Cephalonia.  Obelerio then invited Pepin King of Italy to occupy Venice, but the Venetians resisted and deposed Obelerio in 810.  According to the Royal Frankish Annals, duke "Willeri" had been deprived of his office because of treachery and was ordered to be returned to his lord in Constantinople"[14].  m ---.  The Chronicon Venetum refers to the wife of "Obellierius" as "ipsa filia erat imperatori"[15].  If this had meant that she had a direct family relationship with the Carolingians, it is likely that this would have been referred to in other sources, no such reference having yet been found.  It is possible that she was a noble lady from the Carolingian court. 

2.         BEATO degli Antenori (-after 805).  The Chronicon Venetum names "suum [=Obelierii ducis] fratrem, Beatum nomine", when recording that his brother associated him in the Dogeship, and that he was later awarded the title "Ypatus" by the Emperor after returning from a visit to Constantinople[16].  He paid homage to Emperor Charlemagne at Aachen in late 80513. 

3.         VALENTINO degli Antenori (-after [809]).  He was associated in the Dogeship by his brother [809].

 

 

 

 

Chapter 2.    DOGES 810-932, 939-942 (PARTIZIPAZIO, TRADONICO, TRIBUNO)

 

 

1.         AGNELLO Participazio[17] (-827).  He led the defence of Venice in 810 against Pepin King of Italy, who withdrew in the face of powerful Venetian opposition.  He was elected Doge 810 in succession to Obelerio degli Antenori, moving his capital to Rialto.  Under the Treaty of 811 agreed between Charlemagne and Nikephoros Emperor of Byzantium, the former renounced any claims over the province of Venetia.  While Venice was thereby confirmed under Byzantine control, separate from the rest of Italy, in practice its autonomous status increased.  He led a project of land reclamation.  m ---.  The name of Agnello´s wife is not known.  Agnello & his wife had two children: 

a)         GIOVANNI Participazio (-after 29 Jun 836).  His father associated him in the Dogeship.  The Chronicon Venetum names "Iohannes, Agnelli ducis filius et Iustiniani frater" when recording that the brothers returned to Venice from Constantinople and that Giustiniano was elected Doge[18].  He was elected Doge in 829 in succession to his brother.  Deposed 29 Jun 836, he was forced to become a monk and was sent to a monastery at Grado. 

b)         GIUSTINIANO Participazio (-829).  The Chronicon Venetum names "Iohannes, Agnelli ducis filius et Iustiniani frater" when recording that the brothers returned to Venice from Constantinople and that Giustiniano was elected Doge[19].  He was elected Doge in 827 in succession to his father.  He commanded the construction of a chapel to house what was thought to be the body of St Mark which was brought to Venice from Alexandria in 828. 

 

 

1.         PIETRO Tradonico (-murdered 13 Sep 864).  Related by marriage to the Participazio family from Jesolo, he led Agnello Participazio's building project on reclaimed land.  He was elected Doge in 836 to succeed Giovanni Participazio.  He led a successful naval expedition against the Slavs of Dalmatia in 840.  He concluded a treaty with Emperor Lothar, including the obligation on Venice to defend the Adriatic against the Slavs.  He was conferred the title Spatharius by the Patriarch of Constantinople in [840] in return for promising to help defend Byzantium against the Aglabi Saracens from North Africa who had invaded Byzantine Sicily.  He suffered a humiliating defeat near Taranto, and was forced to retreat to Venice by the advancing Saracen fleet.  The Chronicon Venetum records that he was attacked and killed after attending mass at the church of San Zaccaria, naming his murderers "Iohannes Gradonicus cum quodam suo nepote, Petrus Stephani Candiani filius, Stephanus de Sabulo, Dominicus Faletri filius, Ursus Grugnarius, duo fratres Salbiani filii" among others[20].  m ---.  The name of Pietro´s wife is not known.  Pietro & his wife had one child: 

a)         GIOVANNI Tradonico (-863).  The Chronicon Venetum names "Iohannes, suum [=Petrus] filium" when recording that his father associated him in the Dogeship[21].  The Chronicon Venetum records the death of "Iohannes dux" one year before his father[22].  m ---.  The name of Giovanni´s wife is not known.  Giovanni & his wife had one child: 

i)          daughter ([856]-).  The Chronicon Venetum records that "Lodovico Longobardorum rex" stood godfather to "Iohannes dux sobolem" during his visit to Venice in 856, but does not give the daughter's name[23]. 

2.         ---. 

a)         AGNELLA ---.  m DOMINICO Tribuno, son of ---.  Dominico & his wife ha done child: 

i)          PIETRO Tribuno (-912, bur Monastery of San Zaccaria[24]).  The Chronicon Venetum records the election of "Petrum nobilem virum, filium Dominici Tribuni, qui Petrus natus fuerat de Agnella neptia Peteri superioris ducis quem ad monasterium …interfectum" as Doge in 888 to replace the infirm Giovanni Partizipazio[25].  He renewed the treaty agreements with the Western Empire in 888 and 891, including a provision guaranteeing Venetian extra-territorial jurisdiction over Venetian citizens in Imperial Italy, which resulted in the extension of operations of Venetian merchants.  Venice was attacked in 899, unsuccessfully, by the Magyars.  Pietro Tribuno ordered fortification of Venice's defences, including the manufacture of a great chain of iron which could be stretched across the Grand Canal. 

 

 

1.         ORSO Participazio (-881).  He was elected Doge in 864 after the murder of Pietro Tradonico[26].  His relationship to the previous Participazio Doges is not known.  He instituted a system of elected judges who would provide a check on the power of the Doge.  "Karolus…rex" renewed the Venetian treaty with "Urso duce Veneticorum" by charter dated 11 Jan 880[27].  m ---.  The name of Orso´s wife is not known.  Orso & his wife had six children: 

a)         GIOVANNI Participazio (-888).  The Chronicon Venetum names (in order) "Iohannem, Badovarium, Ursum et Petrum" as the four sons of "domnus Ursus dux"[28].  The Chronicon Venetum names "Ursus dux Iohannem filium" when recording that his father associated him in the Dogeship[29].  He was elected Doge in 881 in succession to his father[30].  The Venetians elected Pietro Candiano to be associated Doge with him in 887, but after the latter was killed within a few months Giovanni Participazio resumed full power.  He abdicated due to ill health in 887, was restored the same year after the death of his brother Pietro[31] and abdicated again the following year, dying soon after[32]. 

b)         BADOVARIO Partizipazio (-[882/87]).  The Chronicon Venetum names (in order) "Iohannem, Badovarium, Ursum et Petrum" as the four sons of "domnus Ursus dux" [33].  The Chronicon Venetum names "Badovarium suum [=Iohannes dux] fratrem" when recording that his brother sent him to Rome in a bid to be elected Pope, his capture by "Marinus Cumaclensium comes" at Ravenna, and his return to Venice where he died soon after[34]. 

c)         ORSO Participazio (-after 998).  The Chronicon Venetum names (in order) "Iohannem, Badovarium, Ursum et Petrum" as the four sons of "domnus Ursus dux" [35].  The Chronicon Venetum names "Iohannes dux alterum germanium suum, Ursum" when recording that his brother associated him in the Dogeship after Giovanni's restoration following the death of their brother Pietro, but that he refused the Dogeship[36]. 

d)         PIETRO Participazio (-887).  The Chronicon Venetum names (in order) "Iohannem, Badovarium, Ursum et Petrum" as the four sons of "domnus Ursus dux" [37].  "Petrum minimum suum [=Iohannes dux] fratrem" was elected Doge after his brother's first abdication, but died soon after aged 25 and was buried next to his brother Badovario[38]. 

e)         FELICIA Participazio .  The Chronicon Venetum names "suam [=Ursus dux] filiam Feliciam" when recording her marriage to "Rodoaldo, Iohannis ducis Boloniæ filio"[39].  m RODOALD, son of IOANNES Duke of Bologna & his wife ---. 

f)          GIOVANNA Participazio .  The Chronicon Venetum names "Iohanna abbatissa, domni Ursi ducis filia" when recording her entry into the monastery of St Zacharias[40]. 

2.         …

a)         ORSO Participazio (-after 932).  His relationship to the previous Participazio Doges is not known.  The Chronicon Venetum records the election of "domnus Ursus cognomento Particiacus" as Doge in 912 in succession to Pietro Tribuno[41].  He abdicated in 932, retiring to the monastery of San Felice[42].  m ---.  The name of Orso´s wife is not known.  Orso & his wife had one child: 

i)          PIETRO Badoer (-942).  The Chronicon Venetum names "suum [=Ursus cognomento Particiacus] filium Petrum" recording that his father sent him to Emperor Leo in Constantinople[43].  The Chronicon Venetum records the election of "Petrus Ursonis ducis filius" as Doge in 939 in succession to Pietro Candiano, and the death of "Petro duce Badavario" after 3 years[44].   

 

 

 

 

Chapter 3.    DOGES 932-939, 942-991 (CANDIANO, MENIO)

 

 

STEFANO Candiano, son of --- .  m ---.  The name of Stefano´s wife is not known.  Stefano & his wife had one child: 

1.         PIETRO Candiano [I] (-killed in battle 18 Sep 887).  The Chronicon Venetum names "Iohannes Gradonicus cum quodam suo nepote, Peterus Stephani Candiani filius " among the murderers of Doge Pietro Tradonico in 864, and that "Stephanus Candianus cum Iohannis Gradonici nepote" were among those subsequently exiled from Venice[45].  The Chronicon Venetum records the election of "Petrum cognamento Candianum" as associate Doge with the infirm Giovanni Partizipazio 17 Apr 887 and his death within a few months during an expedition against Dalmatian pirates[46].  m ---.  The name of Pietro´s wife is not known.  Pietro & his wife had one child: 

a)         PIETRO Candiano [II] (-939).  The Chronicon Venetum records the election of "Petrus cognomento Candianus" as Doge in 932 in succession to Orso Participazio[47].  "Petrus imperialis Protospatarius et…Veneticorum Dux, filius Petro Duci Candiano" issued privileges to "civitate nostre…Justinopolim" by charter dated 14 Jan 932[48].  He began an economic blockading war against Istria, and attacked and burned Comacchio.  m ---.  The name of Pietro´s wife is not known.  Pietro & his wife had one child: 

i)          PIETRO Candiano [III] (-959).  The Chronicon Venetum records the election of "Petrus Candianus, antedicti Petri ducis filius" as Doge in 942 in succession to "Petro duce Badavario"[49].  He defeated the Narenta pirates who had killed his grandfather.  He associated his son with the Dogeship in 946.  m ---.  The name of Pietro´s wife is not known.  Pietro & his wife had one child: 

(a)       PIETRO Candiano [IV] (-murdered Summer 976, bur Sant' Ilario).  The Chronicon Venetum records that "Petrus dux" had three sons, of whom "unum nomine Petrum", whom his father associated in the Dogeship[50].  He was banished after quarrelling with his father.  He enlisted in the army of Guido Marchese di Ivrea, who was crowned King of Italy in 950, during which he attacked Venice.  He was elected Doge in 959 in succession to his father.  "Petro…Duce…cum Vitale…Patriarcha filio suo" abrogated trading agreements with the Saracens by charter dated Jul 971, signed by "…Dominicus Urseolo, Petrus Urseolo…"[51].  The Venetians rebelled against him in 976 when he ordered them to defend his personal interests in the Ferrarese.  Numerous buildings were destroyed or damaged by fire in their attempts to expel Pietro from his palace.  m firstly (divorced) ---.  m secondly WALDRADA of Tuscany, daughter of UBERTO Marchese of Tuscany & his wife Willa di Spoleto (-after 976).  The Chronicon Venetum names "Hugonis marchionis sororem Hwalderada" when recording her marriage to Pietro[52].  She brought lands in Friuli, the March of Treviso, Adria and the Ferrarese to Venice as her dowry.  She escaped when her husband and child were murdered.  She sought refuge at the German Imperial court from where she claimed the return of her dowry from Venice, for which she was given full financial compensation from the proceeds of a tithe levied on all Venetians.  Pietro & his first wife had one child: 

(1)       VITALE (-1017).  He was made Bishop of Torcello by his father soon after his accession, and Patriarch of Grado in 969.  "Petro…Duce…cum Vitale…Patriarcha filio suo" abrogated trading agreements with the Saracens by charter dated Jul 971, signed by "…Dominicus Urseolo, Petrus Urseolo…"[53].  "Vitalis sancte Grandensis patriarcalis filius bone memorie domini Petri ducis Candianus" donated property in Chioggia minore and in Fogolana "ex successione…patris sui defuncti" to "Marinæ olim ducarisse relicte…domini Tribuno Memo duci et Mauritio filio suo" by charter dated May 1012[54]. 

(2)       MARINA (-after May 1012).  "Vitalis sancte Grandensis patriarcalis filius bone memorie domini Petri ducis Candianus" donated property in Chioggia minore and in Fogolana "ex successione…patris sui defuncti" to "Marinæ olim ducarisse relicte…domini Tribuno Memo duci et Mauritio filio suo" by charter dated May 1012[55].  m TRIBUNO Menio, son of --- (-[991/May 1012]).  The Chronicon Venetum records the election of "Tribunus cognomento Menius" as Doge in succession to Vitale Candiano in 979[56].  He renewed the treaty of trade and protection with the Emperor Otto II in Jun 982.  However, Otto II was persuaded to blockade Venice, ignoring the treaty, in 983 by Stefano Coloprini who promised to subject the city to imperial suzerainty in return for Otto's support to install him as Doge.  The threat was averted by the death of Coloprini followed in Dec 983 by that of Emperor Otto.  A weak and incapable leader, he abdicated in 991 and became a monk.  Tribuno & his wife had one child: 

a.         MAURIZIO (-after 1015).  "Vitalis sancte Grandensis patriarcalis filius bone memorie domini Petri ducis Candianus" donated property in Chioggia minore and in Fogolana "ex successione…patris sui defuncti" to "Marinæ olim ducarisse relicte…domini Tribuno Memo duci et Mauritio filio suo" by charter dated May 1012[57].  "Mauricius filius Tribuni Memo ducis" donated his property in Fogolana to the monastery of SS. Trinità e di S. Michele di Brondolo by charter dated 1015[58].  "Petro Ursoyolo" confirmed to "Mauricio Menio" and the abbot of SS Trinità di Brondolo the abbey´s possession of property at Conche, by charter dated 1071, which specifies that Mauricio Menio was grandson of Tribuno Menio Doge of Venice and son of "Mauricio filio eius"[59].  A charter dated Jul 1079 records a judgment against the abbey of Cluny and in favour of the monastery of SS. Trinità e S. Michele di Brondolo relating to property at Fogolana, and records donations by "Vitalis patriarcha sancte Gradensis ecclesie filius boni [memorie] Petri ducis Candianum" to "Marinam olim ducissam relictam boni [memorie] Tribuni Memi ducis et Mauritio Memo filio suo", by "Otho dux" to "Mauritium filium boni [memorie] Tribuni Memi ducis" and by "Mauritius filius quondam Mauritii Memi de Rivoalto" to the monastery[60]. 

Pietro & his second wife had one child: 

(3)       --- (-murdered Summer 976, bur Sant' Ilario).  The Chronicon Venetum records that "filio parvulo quem de predicta Hwalderada" was murdered with his father[61].   

 

 

1.         VITALE Candiano (-after 979).  His relationship with the previous Candiano doges is not known.  "Otto…imperator augustus" confirmed property "Musestre…in comitatu Tarvisienssi" to "Vitalis Candianus Veneticus" by charter dated 26 Aug 963[62].  The Chronicon Venetum records that "Vitalis cognomento Candianus" was elected Doge in succession to Pietro Orseolo in 978[63].  He abdicated 979 and retired to a monastery.  m ---.  The name of Vitale´s wife is not known.  Vitale & his wife had two children: 

a)         DOMINICO Candiano (-after 30 May 998).  "Otto…Romanorum imperator augustus" confirmed the possessions of "Dominico Candiano filio Vitalis Candiano" by charter dated 30 May 998[64]. 

b)         EMILIA Candiano .  m DOMENICO Orseolo, son of ---. 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 4.    DOGES 976-978, 991-1026, 1031 (ORSEOLO)

 

 

1.         DOMENICO Orseolo .  The Annales Venetici Breves name "Dominicus Ursiulus" as brother of "Petrus Ursiulus"[65].  "Petro…Duce…cum Vitale…Patriarcha filio suo" abrogated trading agreements with the Saracens by charter dated Jul 971, signed by "…Dominicus Urseolo, Petrus Urseolo…"[66].  m EMILIA Candiano, daughter of VITALE Candiano Doge of Venice. 

2.         PIETRO Orseolo [I] (-987).  "Petro…Duce…cum Vitale…Patriarcha filio suo" abrogated trading agreements with the Saracens by charter dated Jul 971, signed by "…Dominicus Urseolo, Petrus Urseolo…"[67].  The Chronicon Venetum records that "Petrum Ursoyum cognomine" was elected Doge in succession to Pietro Candiano [IV][68], 12 Aug 976.  He funded the rebuilding of the Doge's palace and St Mark's basilica which had been destroyed during the rebellion against his predecessor.  He imposed a tithe on all Venetians to raise compensation to pay Dogaresse Waldrada for the loss of her dowry.  Increasingly unpopular, he escaped Venice 1 Sep 978 and retired to St Michael of Cuxa, the Benedictine monastery near Prades, Pyrenees.  After his death, his body was preserved until 1732, the year after he was canonised, when it was returned to Venice.  m FELICIA Malipiero, daughter of ---.  The Chronicon Venetum names "Felicia" wife of "Petrum Ursoyum cognomine"[69].  Pietro & his wife had three children: 

a)         PIETRO Orseolo [II] ([960]-1009).  The Chronicon Venetum records that "Petrum, antedicti domni Petri Ursiuli ducis sobelem" was elected Doge in succession to Tribuno Menio in 991, when he was aged 30[70]. 

-        see below. 

b)         daughter.  m GIOVANNI Morosini, son of ---.  The Chronicon Venetum names him as "genero" of "Petrum Ursoyum cognomine" when recording that he accompanied his father-in-law in his escape from Venice in 978[71].  He returned in [982] and became a monk.  He founded the Benedictine monastery on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore.  His family led the pro-Byzantine faction in Venice against the Coloprini which led the faction which favoured the German Empire. 

c)         daughter .  m GIOVANNI Gradenigo, son of ---. 

 

 

PIETRO Orseolo [II], son of PIETRO Orseolo [I] Doge of Venice & his wife Felicia Malipiero ([960]-1009).  The Chronicon Venetum records that "Petrum, antedicti domni Petri Ursiuli ducis sobelem" was elected Doge in succession to Tribuno Menio in 991, when he was aged 30[72].  He negotiated favourable trading advantages with Byzantium, with Venetians present in Constantinople being subject direct to the Grand Logothete.  Otto III King of Germany granted Venice the right to establish warehouses and trading stations along the banks of the Piave and the Sile together with tax exemption on imperial territory, confirmed by charters of "Otto…rex" to "Petrus dux Ueneticorum" dated 19 Jul 992, 1 May 995 and 1 May 996[73].  He also established trading connections with Muslim Spain, Egypt, Syria and Sicily.  Faced with threats to Byzantium's outpost towns in Dalmatia, both from pirate raids and from Samuil Tsar of Bulgaria who by 997 had conquered Durazzo and much of Duklja and Serbia, Basilios II Emperor of Byzantium requested Venetian help to defend its interests and in 998 recognised the Doge Pietro Orseolo as the Emperor's official representative in Dalmatia, according him the title dux of Dalmatia and the honorary position of proconsul[74].  "Henricus…rex" confirmed privileges to Venice granted by his predecessors to "dux Veneticorum et Dalamtianorum Peterus…cum filio suo Iohanne similiter duce" by charter dated 16 Nov 1002[75]. 

m MARIA, daughter of ---.  The Chronicon Venetum names "Maria" as wife of "Petrus dux" but does not give her origin[76]. 

Pietro [II] & his wife had ten children: 

1.         GIOVANNI Orseolo ([983]-Venice 1005, bur San Zaccaria).  The Chronicon Venetum names "Iohannes" as eldest son of "Petrus dux"[77].  The Chronicon Venetum records that "domni Petri Veneticorum ac Dalmaticorum ducis decimo, Iohannes…proles" was associated in the Dogeship by his father in 1004[78], although the charter of "Henricus…rex" dated 16 Nov 1002 which confirms Venice's privileges to "dux Veneticorum et Dalamtianorum Peterus…cum filio suo Iohanne similiter duce" suggests that this date is incorrect[79].  The Chronicon Venetum records the death of Giovanni and his wife of plague, as well as their burial place[80].  He, his wife and young son died of plague.  m (Constantinople [1003]) MARIA Argyre, daughter of --- Argyros & his wife --- (-Venice 1005, bur San Zaccaria).  Cedrenus records the marriage of "principi Venetiæ" and "filiam Argyri, sororem…Romani [postea imperator]"[81].  The Chronicon Venetum refers to "filiam Argiropoli, imperiali editam stirpe…imperatorum videlicet neptis" as wife of "Iohannem ducem" when recording their marriage, the reference to Giovanni's title suggesting that the marriage took place after he was associated in the Dogeship by his father, in a later passage naming her "domna vero Maria, Greca ductrix"[82].  No more precise indication of her parentage has been found in any of the other primary sources so far consulted.  If she was a member of the Argyros family, it is chronologically consistent for her to have been a younger sister of the future Emperor Romanos III, but the relationship may have been more distant.  It is assumed that the reference in the Chronicon Venetum to Maria having been "…imperatorum…neptis" was hyperbole for Venetian audiences.  Basileios II was Byzantine emperor at the time of the marriage and no reference has been found of any relationship between the imperial family and the Argyros family.  Indeed, such a relationship is unlikely in view of the subsequent marriage between Empress Zoe, the niece of Emperor Basileios, and Emperor Romanos III Argyros, no mention having been found in the Byzantine primary sources so far consulted to this marriage having been within the prohibited degrees of consanguinity.  The Chronicon Venetum records the death of Maria and her husband of plague, as well as their burial place[83].  Giovanni & his wife had one child: 

a)         BASILIO Orseolo (Constantinople [1004]-Venice 1005).  The Chronicon Venetum records the baptism of the son of "Maria Greca ductrix" a few days after their arrival in Venice from Constantinople, named after "Vassilium ob avunculi sui imperatoris"[84]. 

2.         HICELA Orseolo .  The Chronicon Venetum names "Hicelam" as eldest of the four daughters of "Petrus dux", naming her husband "Stefano Sclavorum regis filio"[85].  A charter dated Jul 1079 records a judgment against the abbey of Cluny and in favour of the monastery of SS. Trinità e S. Michele di Brondolo relating to property at Fogolana, and recalls sales of property by "Anna comitissa relicta domini Vidonis comitis" to "Petrum ducem Venetiarum filium bonum [memorie] Petrus dux" and by "Vitalis et Aichelda filii boni [memorie] Petr ducis" to "fratrum eorum Petrum ducem Venetiarum"[86].  m (after [1000]) STJEPAN of Croatia, son of SVETOSLAV King of Croatia.  After his father recognised Venetian overlordship over Dalmatia [1000], Stjepan was sent as a hostage to Venice, where he married the Doge's daughter[87].  After the fall from power of the Orseolo family in 1024, Stjepan left Venice to find refuge in Hungary which granted him Slavonia as an appanage[88].   

3.         ORSO Orseolo ([987]-1049).  The Chronicon Venetum names "Ursus" as second son of "Petrus dux", specifying that he entered the church[89].  Bishop of Torcello.  He succeeded Vitale Candiano 1017 as Patriarch of Grado.  Expelled from Grado by Poppo von Treffen Patriarch of Aquileia, he was forced to flee Venice for Istria in [1022/23] with his brother Ottone.  However, after Poppo's sack of Grado, the Venetians recalled Orso and his brother.  He was appointed Regent of Venice on the deposition of Pietro Centranico in 1030, while awaiting the return of his brother Ottone who was invited back.  He resigned 1031 on learning of Ottone's death. 

4.         PIETRO Orseolo ([989]-Constantinople 1031).  The Chronicon Venetum names "Otho" as third son of "Petrus dux"[90].  Confirmed as "OTTO" at Verona 996, Emperor Otto III subsequently acting as his sponsor[91].  His father associated him with the Dogeship after the death of his oldest son.  He was elected Doge in 1009 in succession to his father.  Following Byzantium's grant to Venice in 998 of increased authority over its Dalmatian outpost towns, Venice increased its involvement in the area to turn this theoretical right into real control.  It extracted oaths of loyalty from several of the Byzantine-controlled towns, then turned its attention to the Croatian-controlled ports, imposing itself as overlord in Biograd.  A major Venetian offensive took place in 1018, obliging Kresimir III King of Croatia to turn to Byzantium for support[92].  Unpopular in Venice for aggrandizing his family, he was forced to flee the city for Istria in [1022/23], but soon recalled by the Venetians after the sacking of Grado by Poppo von Treffen Patriarch of Aquileia.  These difficulties in Venice enabled both King Kresimir to regain control over the Croatian towns in Dalmatia and Byzantium to reassert its authority over its own Dalmatian towns[93].  However, following further scandals over church appointments Doge Otto was deposed 1026 and sent to Constantinople.  A charter dated Jul 1079 records a judgment against the abbey of Cluny and in favour of the monastery of SS. Trinità e S. Michele di Brondolo relating to property at Fogolana, and recalls sales of property by "Anna comitissa relicta domini Vidonis comitis" to "Petrum ducem Venetiarum filium bonum [memorie] Petrus dux" and by "Vitalis et Aichelda filii boni [memorie] Petr ducis" to "fratrum eorum Petrum ducem Venetiarum"[94].  m ([1009]) --- of Hungary, daughter of GÉZA Prince of Hungary & his second wife Adelajda of Poland ([989]-1026).  Her parentage is confirmed by Herimannus who names "Petrum, sororis suæ [=Stephanus Ungariorum rex] filium, de Venetia natum" when recording his accession in 1038[95].  Chronology suggests that she was the daughter of Prince Géza's second marriage but the primary source which confirms this has not so far been identified.  Her marriage is confirmed by the Gesta Hungarorum which names "Petrum Venetum filium sororis suæ…cuius pater dux fuerat Venetorum" as successor to King István[96].  As Pietro Orseolo was Doge from 1009 to the early 1020s, he is the only possible Venetian ruler to whom this can relate, although the primary source which specifically proves his marriage has not so far been identified. 

-        KINGS of HUNGARY. 

5.         daughter .  The Chronicon Venetum records that the three younger daughters of "Petrus dux" entered convents, but does not name them[97]. 

6.         daughter .  The Chronicon Venetum records that the three younger daughters of "Petrus dux" entered convents, but does not name them[98]. 

7.         VITALE Orseolo ([997]-).  The Chronicon Venetum names "Vitalis" as fourth son of "Petrus dux", specifying that he entered the church[99].  Bishop of Torcello 1017.  A charter dated Jul 1079 records a judgment against the abbey of Cluny and in favour of the monastery of SS. Trinità e S. Michele di Brondolo relating to property at Fogolana, and recalls sales of property by "Anna comitissa relicta domini Vidonis comitis" to "Petrum ducem Venetiarum filium bonum [memorie] Petrus dux" and by "Vitalis et Aichelda filii boni [memorie] Petr ducis" to "fratrum eorum Petrum ducem Venetiarum"[100]. 

8.         son.  The Chronicon Venetum names "Henricus" as fifth son of "Petrus dux"[101].  He adopted the name "ENRICO" when Emperor Heinrich II acted as sponsor at his confirmation in 1004 at Verona[102]. 

9.         daughter (1001-).  The Chronicon Venetum records that "imperator [Otto III]" stood godfather to "filia ducis" in 1001[103].  The Chronicon Venetum records that the three younger daughters of "Petrus dux" entered convents, but does not name them[104]. 

10.      DOMENICO Orseolo (-after 1031).  His parentage is confirmed by the charter dated 1015 under which his mother-in-law "Inmilia erelicta quondam Ugonis comitis et Ubertus comis et Mainfridus filius quondam Ugo…comitis germanis filiis et mundoaldis meis…ex nacio…Longobardorum" donated property "in comitatu Tervisiano…in isola…Fogolana" to "Inmilda…filia mea et coniux Dominici filius quondam Petroni duci de finibus Veneciarum"[105].  He seized power on the resignation of Orso Orseolo as Regent in 1031, but fled to Ravenna after a day and a night.  m (before 25 Jan 1015) as her first husband, IMMILIA, daughter of UGO Conte di Padova e Vicenza & his wife Immilia --- (-after 25 Jan 1015).  "Inmilia erelicta quondam Ugonis comitis et Ubertus comis et Mainfridus filius quondam Ugo…comitis germanis filiis et mundoaldis meis…ex nacio…Longobardorum" donated property "in comitatu Tervisiano…in isola…Fogolana" to "Inmilda…filia mea et coniux Dominici filius quondam Petroni duci de finibus Veneciarum" by charter dated 25 Jan 1015[106].  She married secondly Arduccio.  Her second marriage is confirmed by the charter dated Dec 1061 under which her daughter "Entesema filia Dominici Ursoyoli uxor Dominici Roso" granted property at Conche and Chioggia inherited from "Melda mater mea filia quondam Ungoni comes uxor Artuycho" to "Petro Ursoyolo fratri meo"[107].  Domenico & his wife had four children: 

a)         UGO Orseolo . 

b)         PIETRO Orseolo (-after 1071).  "Entesema filia Dominici Ursoyoli uxor Dominici Roso" granted property at Conche and Chioggia inherited from "Melda mater mea filia quondam Ungoni comes uxor Artuycho" to "Petro Ursoyolo fratri meo" by charter dated Dec 1061[108].  "Petro Ursoyolo" confirmed to "Mauricio Menio" and the abbot of SS Trinità di Brondolo the abbey´s possession of property at Conche, by charter dated 1071, which specifies that Mauricio Menio was grandson of Tribuno Menio Doge of Venice[109].  The involvement of Pietro in this document suggests a family relationship with the Menio family, maybe through Pietro´s wife as his mother´s family is known already. 

c)         FELICIA Orseolo .  m NICOLO Bembo, son of ---. 

d)         ENTESEMA Orseolo (-after Dec 1061).  "Entesema filia Dominici Ursoyoli uxor Dominici Roso" granted property at Conche and Chioggia inherited from "Melda mater mea filia quondam Ungoni comes uxor Artuycho" to "Petro Ursoyolo fratri meo" by charter dated Dec 1061[110].  m DOMENICO Rosso, son of --- (-after Dec 1061). 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 5.    DOGES 1026-1084 (CENTRANICO/BARBOLANO, FLABANICO, CONTARINI, SILVIO)

 

 

PIETRO Centranico or Barbolano.  He was elected Doge in 1026 in succession to Ottone Orseolo.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Pietro Centranigo" was elected Doge in 1026[111].  Deposed 1030. 

 

 

DOMENICO Flabiano or Flabanico (-1041).  A wealthy silk merchant, he was elected Doge in 1032.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Domenico Fiabenigo" was elected Doge in 1032[112].  A proponent of anti-dynastic views. 

 

 

DOMENICO Contarini [I] (-1071).  He was elected Doge in 1041 in succession to Domenico Flabanico.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Domenico Contarini" was elected Doge in 1044[113].  Faced with a second attack on Grado by Poppo von Treffen Patriarch of Aquileia, Domenico Contarini sent a Venetian fleet to counter-attack, but Poppo died soon after and his supporters fled. 

 

 

1.         DOMENICO Silvio (-after 1084).  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Domenico Selvo" was elected Doge in 1069[114].  Doge of Venice 1071-1084 deposed.  The Normans attacked northern Dalmatia in 1074, making themselves overlords in Split, Trogir, Biograd and Zadar, but were expelled by the Venetians over the following three years.  The Doge once more assumed the title dux of Dalmatia, on the basis of the 998 grant by Emperor Basilios II[115].  "Dominicus Sylvius…dux…Petrus filius Petri Michaeli, Vitalis frater eius" witnessed the charter dated Apr 1075 which records the sale of property by the abbot of SS. Ilario e Benedetto to "Iohannes Signolo"[116].  A charter dated Jul 1079 records a judgment against the abbey of Cluny and in favour of the monastery of SS. Trinità e S. Michele di Brondolo relating to property at Fogolana, names "dominus noster Dominicus Silvius…dux et imperialis prothophendius…Dominicum Silvium filium suum", recalls sales of property by "Anna comitissa relicta domini Vidonis comitis" to "Petrum ducem Venetiarum filium bonum [memorie] Petrus dux" and by "Vitalis et Aichelda filii boni [memorie] Petr ducis" to "fratrum eorum Petrum ducem Venetiarum", as well as donations by "Vitalis patriarcha sancte Gradensis ecclesie filius boni [memorie] Petri ducis Candianum" to "Marinam olim ducissam relictam boni [memorie] Tribuni Memi ducis et Mauritio Memo filio suo", by "Otho dux" to "Mauritium filium boni [memorie] Tribuni Memi ducis" and by "Mauritius filius quondam Mauritii Memi de Rivoalto" to the monastery[117].  In return for defeating the Norman fleet in 1081, Byzantium granted Venice duty-free trade throughout the Empire, and the right to establish colonies under its own administration[118].  [m firstly ---.  No direct evidence has yet been found of this supposed first marriage.  However, there is no indication in the charter dated Jul 1079, quoted below, that Domenico´s son Domenico was under age, which suggests that he could not have been born from his father´s known marriage to Theodora Dukaina.]  m [secondly] (after 1071) THEODORA Dukaina, daughter of Emperor KONSTANTINOS X & his second wife Evdokia Makrembolitissa (before 1059-after 1075).  Domenico & his [first] wife had one child: 

a)         DOMENICO Silvio (-after Oct 1081).  A charter dated Jul 1079 records a judgment against the abbey of Cluny and in favour of the monastery of SS. Trinità e S. Michele di Brondolo relating to property at Fogolana and names "dominus noster Dominicus Silvius…dux et imperialis prothophendius…Dominicum Silvium filium suum"[119].  Betrothed (Oct 1081) to --- di Principatu, daughter of GUILLAUME de Hauteville Conte di Principato & his wife [Maria] di Conza-Salerno.  Malaterra refers to the betrothal of "dux…neptem" (referring to a Venetian named Dominico) and "filiam fratris sui Guilielmi Principatus comitis" at the time of the siege of Durazzo, dated to Oct 1081[120]. 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 6.    DOGES 1084-1192  (FALIER, MICHIELI, POLANI, MOROSINI, ZIANI, MASTROPIERO)

 

 

 

1.         VITALE Falier (-1095).  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Vitale Falier" was elected Doge in 1076[121].  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1084.  "Vitalis Faletrus…Venetie et Dalmacie Dux et imperialis Protosevastos" donated property to the monastery of St George, Constantinople by charter dated Jul 1090, signed by "…Joannes Badoario judex, Henricus Orsoyolo judex, Joannes Maurocenus judex, Badoarius Aurio judex, Joannes Gradonico judex…"[122].  "Heinricus…Romanorum imperator augustus" renewed the treaty with the Venetians with "Vitalem Faletrum de Donis…ducem Veneticorum" by charter dated 1095[123]. 

 

2.         ORDELAFFO Falier (-1118).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1101.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Ordelaffo Falier" was elected Doge in 1111[124].  "Ordelafus Faletro…Venetie Dux et Imperialis Protosevastos" donated the church of St Archidani, Constantinople to the patriarch of Grado by charter dated Sep 1107, signed by "…Joannes Faledri judicis…Domenicus Cornario…Petrus Contarenus, Johannes Gradonicus…Dominicus Dandulo, Petrus Michael…"[125]. 

 

 

1.         PIETRO Michieli .  m ---.  The name of Pietro´s wife is not known.  Pietro & his wife had two children: 

a)         PIETRO Michieli (-after Apr 1075).  "Dominicus Sylvius…dux…Petrus filius Petri Michaeli, Vitalis frater eius" witnessed the charter dated Apr 1075 which records the sale of property by the abbot of SS. Ilario e Benedetto to "Iohannes Signolo"[126]. 

b)         VITALE Michieli [I] (-1101).  "Dominicus Sylvius…dux…Petrus filius Petri Michaeli, Vitalis frater eius" witnessed the charter dated Apr 1075 which records the sale of property by the abbot of SS. Ilario e Benedetto to "Iohannes Signolo"[127].  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1095.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Vitale Michiel" was elected Doge in 1096[128].  "Vitali Michaeli…Duci Venetiæ atque Dalmatiæ sive Chroatiæ et imperiali Prothosevastori" granted assurances to Split by charter 1097[129]. 

 

2.         DOMENICO Michieli (-1130).  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Domenico Michiel" was elected Doge in 1117[130].  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1118.  "Dominicus Michaelis Venetie Dux, Dalmatie atque Croatie regni princeps" granted a third part of the Venetian colony of Tyre to Warmund Patriarch of Jerusalem by charter dated 1123[131]. 

 

 

1.         PIETRO Polani (-1148, bur San Cipriano di Murano).  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Piero Polani" was elected Doge in 1128[132].  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1130.  "Petrus Polanus…Venetiarum, Dalmatie atque Chroatie Dux" granted privileges to the monastery of San Giorgio Maggiore by charter dated Sep 1145[133].  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Piero Polani" died after ruling as Doge for 18 years and 17 days, and was buried "a San Cipriano di Murano"[134].  m ---.  The name of Pietro´s wife is not known.  Pietro & his wife had two children

a)         GUIDO Polani .  The Historia Ducum Veneticorum names "Wido comes [et] Naymerius comes" the two sons of "Petrus Polanus"[135]. 

b)         NEMERIO Polani .  The Historia Ducum Veneticorum names "Wido comes [et] Naymerius comes" the two sons of "Petrus Polanus"[136].  The Gesta Friderici of Otto of Freising names "Neimerium filium Petri Polani ducis Veneticorum" when recording that he had previously been held in captivity [by Emperor Manuel I] but was now free[137]. 

 

 

1.         DOMENICO Morosini (-1155, bur Santa Croce).  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Domenico Morosini" was elected Doge in 1146[138].  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1148.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Domenico Morosini" died after ruling as Doge for 8 years, 1 month and 2 days, and was buried "nel Monasterio de Santa Croce"[139].  m ---.  The name of Domenico´s wife is not known.  Domenico & his wife had one child: 

a)         DOMENICO Morosini .  The Historia Ducum Veneticorum names "Dominicum Maurocensum…ducis Dominici Mauroceni filum"[140]. 

 

 

1.         VITALE Michieli [II] (-1172, bur San Zaccheria).  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Vitale Michiel" was elected Doge in 1154[141].  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1155.  "Vitalis Michael…Venetie, Dalmacie atque Chroacie Dux" donated the church of St Mark at Tyre to the church of San Marco, Venice by charter dated Aug 1164, signed by "Sebastianus Ziani judex, Auriomastro Petro judex, Marinus Michael judex, Vitalis Dandulo judex…"[142].  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Vitale Michiel" died after ruling as Doge for 17 years, 17 days, and was buried "a San Zaccheria"[143].  m ---.  The name of Vitale´s wife is not known.  Vitale & his wife had two children

a)         LEONARDO Michieli (-[1172]).  The Historia Ducum Veneticorum names "filio illius [=Vitale Michael] Leonardo " and his marriage to "comiti Absari ducis Desse filiam"[144].  m ([1155/72]) --- of Serbia, daughter of DESA Grand Župan of Serbia & his wife ---. 

b)         NICCOLÒ Michieli .  The Annales Venetici Breves name "comitis Nicolay, filio Vitalis Michaelis ducis" and his marriage to "neptiam regis [Ungarie] nomine reginam Mariam"[145].  The Historia Ducum Veneticorum names "alter quoque illius [=Vitale Michael] filius…Nicholaus comes Arbensis", after his brother Leonardo, and his marriage to "Ladisclavi regis Ungarici filiam"[146].  Patrician of Venice.  Governor of Arbe.  m ([before 1165/Dec 1167]) MARIA of Hungary, daughter of LÁSZLÓ of Hungary [later LÁSZLÓ II King of Hungary] & Judyta of Poland ([1147/48]-).  She is named and her marriage shown in Europäische Stammtafeln[147], but the source on which this is based has not been identified.  If her affiliation is correct, she must have been born when her parents were very young. 

 

 

1.         SEBASTIANO Ziani (-1172).  "Vitalis Michael…Venetie, Dalmacie atque Chroacie Dux" donated the church of St Mark at Tyre to the church of San Marco, Venice by charter dated Aug 1164, signed by "Sebastianus Ziani judex, Auriomastro Petro judex, Marinus Michael judex, Vitalis Dandulo judex…"[148].  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1172.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Sebastiano Ziani" was elected Doge in 1172[149]. 

 

 

1.         ORIO Mastropiero (-1192).  "Vitalis Michael…Venetie, Dalmacie atque Chroacie Dux" donated the church of St Mark at Tyre to the church of San Marco, Venice by charter dated Aug 1164, signed by "Sebastianus Ziani judex, Auriomastro Petro judex, Marinus Michael judex, Vitalis Dandulo judex…"[150].  "Sebastianus Ziani…Venetiarum, Dalmatie atque Chroatie Dux" donated one third of the town of Tyre to the church of San Marco, Venice by charter dated Jun 1175, signed by "Andreas Dandulo judex, Aurio Mastro Petro judex, Petrus Fuscareno judex, Dominicus Sanudo judex, Joannes Badouarius…"[151].  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1178.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Orio Mistropiero" was elected Doge in 1179[152].  A charter dated Nov 1188 records a Venetian commitment for an expedition to recover the Holy Land in the name of "Aureus Mastropetrus…Venetiarum, Dalmatie atque Chroacie Dux"[153].  He abdicated in 1192.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Orio Mistropiero" abdicated after ruling for 14 years and 1 month, and became a monk[154].  m ---.  The name of Orio´s wife is not known.  Orio & his wife had one child: 

a)         MARINO Mastropiero (-after 1199).  Emperor Alexios III granted privileges to "Dux Venetie et protoseuastos Henricus Dandolus" and his legates "Rainerium Zenum et filium…quidem Ducis Venetie Auri Magistri Petri, Marinum" by charter dated 1199[155]. 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 7.    DOGES 1192-1253  (DANDOLO, ZIANO, TIEPOLO, MOROSINI)

 

 

1.         VITALE Dandolo (-[Aug 1164/Feb 1183]).  "Vitalis Michael…Venetie, Dalmacie atque Chroacie Dux" donated the church of St Mark at Tyre to the church of San Marco, Venice by charter dated Aug 1164, signed by "Sebastianus Ziani judex, Auriomastro Petro judex, Marinus Michael judex, Vitalis Dandulo judex…"[156].  m ---.  The name of Vitale´s wife is not known.  Vitale & his wife had one child: 

a)         GIOVANNI Dandolo .  "Dominicus Jubianus" promised revenue from land in Constantinople to "Johanni Dandulo filio qu. Vitali Dandulo" by charter dated Feb 1183[157]. 

 

2.         ANDREA Dandolo (-after Jun 1175).  "Sebastianus Ziani…Venetiarum, Dalmatie atque Chroatie Dux" donated one third of the town of Tyre to the church of San Marco, Venice by charter dated Jun 1175, signed by "Andreas Dandulo judex, Aurio Mastro Petro judex, Petrus Fuscareno judex, Dominicus Sanudo judex, Joannes Badouarius…"[158]. 

 

3.         ENRICO Dandolo (-Constantinople 1205, bur Constantinople).  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Arrigo Dandolo" was elected Doge in 1192[159].  Doge of Venice 1192.  Emperor Alexios III granted privileges to "Dux Venetie et protoseuastos Henricus Dandolus" and his legates "Rainerium Zenum et filium…quidem Ducis Venetie Auri Magistri Petri, Marinum" by charter dated 1199[160].  Villehardouin names "Enrico Dandolo" as Doge of Venice, recording in detail his part in the preparations for the Fourth Crusade[161].  He took advantage of the Fourth Crusade to increase Venetian influence in the Balkans, imposing his choice of Latin Emperor after the fall of Constantinople in 1204.  He adopted the title "despotes, imperii quarte parties et dimidie dominator"[162].  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Arrigo Dandolo" was buried "in Costantinopoli"[163].  m ---.  The name of Enrico´s wife is not known.  Enrico & his wife had two children: 

a)         FANTINO Dandolo.  He was appointed Bishop of Constantinople[164]. 

b)         RANIERI Dandolo.  The Historia Ducum Veneticorum names "dominus Raynerius Dandulo…filius ducis"[165].  Procurator of San Marco.  "Rainerius Dandulo filius domini Henrici Danduli…Ducis Venetiæ" subscribed the charter dated Oct 1202 under which "Dominus Balduinus comes Flandrie et Hayn" requested help from "domini Henrici Danduli…Venetiarum Ducis"[166].  He expelled the French garrisons from Modon and Coron in 1206[167].  m ---.  The name of Ranieri´s wife is not known.  Ranieri & his wife had one child: 

i)          ANNA Dandolo (-[1264]).  m ([1216/17]) as his third wife, STEFAN Grand Župan of Serbia, son of STEFAN NEMANJA Grand Župan of Serbia & his wife Ana ---  (-24 Sep 1227).  He was crowned STEFAN "Prvovenčani/the First-Crowned" King [Kralj] of Serbia in [1217]. 

4.         son .  m ---.  Two children: 

a)         MARINO Dandolo (-before 1243).  He accompanied his first cousin Marco Sanudo on the conquest of the Dodecanese islands in 1207, captured the island of Andros and was awarded the island as a sub-fief[168].  The 16th century Annali Veneti of Stefano Magno record in 1243 that "el castello de Andre" had been granted "al nobel homo Marin Dandolo et alla nobil donna Maria Dorò sua sorella" and was then granted to "Gieremia Guizi et Andrea Guizi"[169].  m as her first husband, FELISA, daughter of ---.  The Istoria of Marino Sanudo Torsello names "madonna Felisa…moglie de miser Marin Dandolo"[170].  On the death of her first husband without direct heirs, Angelo Sanudo Duke of Naxos bequeathed Andros jointly to his widow and to Geremia Ghisi.  She married secondly Giacopo Quirini of Astypalaia, who supported her claims to Andros against Geremia Ghisi who had made himself master of the whole island[171]. 

b)         MARIA .  The 16th century Annali Veneti of Stefano Magno record in 1243 that "el castello de Andre" had been granted "al nobel homo Marin Dandolo et alla nobil donna Maria Dorò sua sorella"[172]. 

5.         --- Dandolo .  m MARCO Sanudo, son of ---.  Their son became Lord of Naxos, Duke of the Archipelago. 

 

 

1.         SEBASTIANO Ziani (-1178).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1172.  "Sebastianus Ziani…Venetiarum, Dalmatie atque Chroatie Dux" donated one third of the town of Tyre to the church of San Marco, Venice by charter dated Jun 1175, signed by "Andreas Dandulo judex, Aurio Mastro Petro judex, Petrus Fuscareno judex, Dominicus Sanudo judex, Joannes Badouarius…"[173].  m ---.  The name of Sebastiano´s wife is not known.  Sebastiano & his wife had one child: 

a)         PIETRO Ziani (-Santa Giustina 13 Mar 1230, bur Venice San Giorgio Maggiore).  The Historia Ducum Veneticorum names "patri sui [=Pietro Ziani] Sebastiani Ziani", recording that they were both buried "in cenobio Sancti Georgii maioris"[174].  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1205.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Pietro Ziani" was elected Doge in 1205[175].  He abdicated in 1229.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Pietro Ziani" retired "alle sue case a Santa Giustina", died there one month later, and was buried "a San Giorgio Maggiore"[176].  m firstly MARIA, daughter of ---.  The Historia Ducum Veneticorum names "Maria dukissa, de domo Basiliorum" as first wife of Pietro Ziani[177].  m secondly (1213) CONSTANCE of Sicily, daughter of TANCRED di Lecce King of Sicily & his wife Sibilla di Medania.  The Historia Ducum Veneticorum names "Constanciam…Tancredi regis Sycilie filiam" as second wife of Pietro Ziani[178]. 

 

 

1.         GIACOPO Tiepolo (-1249).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1229.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Giacomo Tiepolo" was elected Doge in 1229[179].  He abdicated. 

a)         LORENZO Tiepolo (-1275).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1268. 

-        see below. 

 

 

1.         TOMASO Morosini (-Thessaloniki Jun 1211).  He was installed as first Latin Patriarch of Constantinople in May 1204 after the fall of the empire of Byzantium, confirmed by Pope Innocent III 5 Feb 1205[180]. 

 

2.         MARINO Morosini (-1253).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1249.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Marino Moresini" was elected Doge 13 Jun 1249[181].  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Marino Moresini" died 3 Jan, after ruling for 3 years, 6 months and 21 days, and was the first Doge to be buried "in abito Ducale"[182]. 

 

3.         MICHELE Sbarra Morosini .  Patrician of Venice.  m ---.  The name of Michele´s wife is not known.  Michele & his wife had four children: 

a)         CONSTANZA Morosini .  m  ([24 Aug 1293]) as his first wife, VLADISLAV of Serbia, son of STEFAN DRAGUTIN King of Serbia & his wife Katalin of Hungary (-in Hungary after 1326). 

b)         TOMASINA Morosini (-end 1300).  Giovanni di Musso´s Chronicon Placentinum records that "Andreæ Regi Hungariæ…filium…Stephanum" married secondly "Thomaxinam sororem Albertini Moresini"[183].  The Chronicon Dubnicense records that "Stephanus" fled Ravenna for Venice where he married "vir quidam civis Venetensis civitatis…filiam"[184].  m ([1265/70]) as his second wife, ISTVÁN of Hungary Duke of Slavonia, son of ANDRÁS II King of Hungary & his third wife Beatrice d'Este (posthumously 1236-1271 shortly after 10 Apr). 

c)         ALBERTO Morosini (-after 6 Jan 1286).  The marriage contract between "Dominum Albertum comitem Goricie…filiam suam dominam Claram" and "domino Andrea…duce Sclavonie nepote olim…domini Andree regis Hungarie" is dated 6 Jun 1286, and names "dominum Albertinum Mauroceno de Venecia…avunculus eiusdem domini ducis"[185]. 

d)         --- Morosini.  m ---.  One child: 

i)          TOMASINA Morosini .  m PIETRO Gradenigo Doge of Venice, son of --- (-1311). 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 8.    DOGES 1253-1356  (ZENO, TIEPOLO, CONTANNI, DANDOLO, GRADENIGO, ZORZI, SORANZO, FALIER)

 

 

1.         RANIERI Zeno (-after 1199).  Emperor Alexios III granted privileges to "Dux Venetie et protoseuastos Henricus Dandolus" and his legates "Rainerium Zenum et filium…quidem Ducis Venetie Auri Magistri Petri, Marinum" by charter dated 1199[186]. 

 

2.         RANIERI Zeno (-1268, bur Venice, Franciscan Monastery).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1253.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Rinieri Zeno" was elected Doge in 1252[187].  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Rinieri Zeno" died after ruling for 20 years, 6 months and was buried "nel monasterio de´ Frati Minori"[188]. 

 

 

LORENZO Tiepolo, son of GIACOMO Tiepolo & his wife --- (-1275).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1268.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Lorenzo Tiepolo" was elected Doge in 1272[189].  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Lorenzo Tiepolo" died after ruling for 10 years, and 25 days, and was buried "nel monasterio de´ Frati Minori"[190]. 

m (before 1262) MARCHESINA Ghisi, daughter of GEREMIA Ghisi Lord of Andros & his wife --- (-before 1298).  The Istoria of Marino Sanudo Torsello records that "maggior figlia…de miser Jeremia" married "miser Lorenzo Tiepolo"[191].  Heiress of Skyros, Skiathos and Skopelos.  Lorenzo & his wife had two children: 

1.         GIACOMO Tiepolo "lo Scopulo" (-1301).  The Istoria of Marino Sanudo Torsello names "miser Jacomo Tiepolo Scopolo…figlio e nipote del Doge" when recording that he was appointed "Capitano"[192].  The Chronicle of Amadi records that "uno grande homo Venetian…Lescople, figluolo del duca di Venetia messer Lorenzo Thiepulo che era morto" led the troops sent by Pope Nicholas to Acre in 1289[193].  Count of Dubrovnik [Ragusa]. 

a)         BAJAMONTE Tiepolo (-after 6 Jan 1328).  He was condemned for high treason by the Grand Council of Venice in 1310[194].  Podestà of Nona 1313 and 1320. 

2.         PIERO Tiepolo .  His parentage is confirmed by the Istoria of Marino Sanudo Torsello which records negotiations for the marriage of "una figlia de miser Piero Tiepolo suo fiol [miser Lorenzo Tiepolo Doge]" and "miser Azzo" son of "marchese Obizone de Este signore allora di Ferrara"[195].  m ---.  The name of Piero´s wife is not known.  Piero & his wife had one child: 

a)         daughter .  The Istoria of Marino Sanudo Torsello records negotiations for the marriage of "una figlia de miser Piero Tiepolo suo fiol [miser Lorenzo Tiepolo Doge]" and "miser Azzo" son of "marchese Obizone de Este signore allora di Ferrara", dated to 1282 from the context, adding that the negotiations failed because of the death of Azzo (which appears to be incorrect)[196]. 

 

 

1.         GIACOPO Contarini (-1280, bur Venice, Franciscan Monastery).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1275.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Giacomo Contarini" was elected Doge in 1282[197].  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Giacomo Contarini" was forced to abdicate as Doge after ruling for 4 years and 7 months, and was later buried "nella chiesa de´ Frati Minori"[198]. 

 

 

1.         GIOVANNI Dandolo (-1289).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1280.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Giovanni Dandolo" was elected Doge 26 Sep 1283[199].  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Giovanni Dandolo" died after ruling for 3 years and 1 month[200]. 

 

 

1.         MARCO Gradenigo .  The Istoria of Marino Sanudo Torsello records that "miser Marco Gradenico, che fù padre de miser Piero che fù poi principe" was sent by Venice to Eubœa and besieged Negroponte, dated from the context to the mid-13th century[201].  m ---.  The name of Marco´s wife is not known.  Marco & his wife had two children: 

a)         PIETRO Gradenigo (-1311).  His parentage is confirmed by the Istoria of Marino Sanudo Torsello which names "miser Marco Gradenico, che fù padre de miser Piero che fù poi principe"[202].  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1289.  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Pietro Gradenigo" was elected Doge 22 Nov 1289[203].  Andrea Navagiero´s Storia della Repubblica Veneziana records that "Pietro Gradenigo" died after ruling for 22 years, 8 months and 6 days, and was buried "nel monasterio di San Cipriano di Murano"[204].  m TOMASINA Morosini, daughter of --- Morosini & his wife ---. 

i)          ELISABETTA Gradenigo .  m ---.  Ancestors of the mother of Charles VII King of France. 

b)         daughter .  m LÉNARD Count of Krk [Veglia] and Modruš, son of VID Count of Krk [Veglia] and Modruš [later Frangepán] & his wife --- (-before 1308). 

 

 

MARINO Zorzi (-1312).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1311. 

 

GIOVANNI Soranzo (-1328).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1312. 

 

FRANCESCO Dandolo (-1339).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1329. 

 

BARTOLOMEO Gradenigo (-1342).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1339. 

 

ANDREA Dandolo (-1354).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1343.  The friend of Petrarch, he compiled the Liber blancus, a collection of treaties negotiated by Venice with the Italian states, and the Liber albus, a similar collection of those negotiated with other western powers[205]. 

 

MARINO Falier (-1355).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1354.  Giovanni di Musso´s Chronicon Placentinum names "in civitate…Venetiarum…dux…Marinus Falerius" when recording the he had usurped the Dogeship and was deposed and beheaded in 1351[206]. 

 

GIOVANNI Gradenigo (-1356).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1355. 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 9.    DOGES 1356-1423  (DOLFIN, CELSI, CORNARO, CONTARINI, MOROSINI, VENIER, STENO, MOCENIGO)

 

 

GIOVANNI Dolfin (-1361).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1356. 

 

LORENZO Celsi (-1365).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1361. 

 

 

1.         FEDERIGO Cornaro (-after 16 May 1378, bur Church of Frari).  He received Pierre I King of Cyprus in Venice in 1365 and 1368, and lent him 60,000 ducats[207].  m ---.  The name of Federigo´s wife is not known.  Federigo & his wife had two children: 

a)         GIOVANNI Cornaro . 

b)         PIETRO Cornaro (-before 12 Dec 1388).  “Petrus Cornario, quondam domini Federici” acquired “castris et fortalitiis Argos et Neapolis…dotis uxoris suæ…dominæ Mariæ, quondam…domini Guidonis de Engino filiæ” by charter dated 12 Sep 1388[208].  m (1383) as her first husband, MARIE d'Enghien Lady of Argos and Nauplion, daughter of GUY d´Enghien Lord of Argos & his wife Bonne de Foucherolles (1364-after 1393).  “Petrus Cornario, quondam domini Federici” acquired “castris et fortalitiis Argos et Neapolis…dotis uxoris suæ…dominæ Mariæ, quondam…domini Guidonis de Engino filiæ” by charter dated 12 Sep 1388[209].  She transferred her territories to the republic of Venice by contract dated 12 Dec 1388 after the death of her husband without issue[210].  She married secondly Pasquale Zano. 

 

2.         GIOVANNI Cornaro .  m ---.  The name of Giovanni´s wife is not known.  Giovanni & his wife had one child: 

a)         MARCO Cornaro (-1368).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1365.  m ---.  The name of Marco´s wife is not known.  Marco & his wife had one child: 

i)          ANDREA Cornaro .  m ---.  The name of Andrea´s wife is not known.  Andrea & his wife had one child: 

(a)       GIORGIO Cornaro .  m ---.  The name of Giorgio´s wife is not known.  Giorgio & his wife had seven children: 

(1)       MARCO Cornaro ([Venice 1435/43]-).  Patrician of Venice.  m FIORENZA Crispo, daughter of NICCOLÒ Crispo Lord of Santorin and Syra & his wife [Valenza] --- ([Venice 1435/43]-).  Marco & his wife had eight children: 

a.         VIOLANTE .  m MARCO Dandolo, son of ---. 

b.         CATERINA Cornaro (Venice [30 Apr/25 Nov] 1454-Venice 10 Jul 1510).  The life of Caterina Cornaro by Antonio Colbertaldi d'Asolo records her birth in 1454 to "Firenze, figliola di Nicolò Crespi duca di Arcipelago, e da Marco Corner nobile Veneto" and her death at Venice 10 Jul 1510, clarifying that she was her father's second daughter[211].  A document dated 1468 records the betrothal of "la fia de Marco Corner kavalier…Catherina" and "el re Zacco" at Venice, also naming "Andrea Corner…fradello de Marco Corner"[212].  On her marriage, she was adopted by the Venetian state under the name 'Caterina Veneta'.  Famed for her beauty, she was painted many times, including by Titian.  She was declared regent of Cyprus by Venice, her adoptive 'parent', on the death of her husband, continuing as such after the birth of her son.  Venice permitted her to succeed her son 1474 as CATERINA Queen of Cyprus, Jerusalem and Armenia, but was forbidden to remarry or exercise any real power.  She was finally obliged to abdicate as Queen 24 Jun 1489 in favour of the Republic of Venice[213], the Cornaro family receiving in recompense the hereditary Grand Commandership in Cyprus of the Order of St John and the right to quarter their arms with those of Lusignan[214].  She left Cyprus for Venice, where she was made Signora di Asolo.  m (by proxy Venice 10 Jun 1468, in person Famagusta Dec 1472) JACQUES II King of Cyprus, illegitimate son of JEAN II King of Cyprus & his mistress Marieta --- ([1438/39 Famagusta 11 Jun 1473). 

c.         CORNELIA .  m PAOLO Vendramino, son of ANDREA Vendramino Doge of Venice & his wife ---. 

d.         REGINA [Elisabetta] .  m (1478) PAOLO Capello, son of ---. 

e.         GIORGIO Cornaro ([Venice 1450/63]-1524).  A Venetian document dated 28 Oct 1488 records the Council decision that Caterina Cornaro should leave Cyprus and that "vir nobilis Georgois Cornario, frater prefate…regine" should travel to Cyprus to effect her departure[215].  m ---.  Descendants. 

f.          BIANCA .  m PIETRO Lando, son of ---. 

g.         AGNESE .  m NICOLO Querini, son of ---. 

h.         daughter .  m --- Querini, son of ---. 

(2)       ANDREA Cornaro (-murdered Famagusta, Cyprus 14 Nov 1473).  He settled in Cyprus before the marriage of his niece.  A document dated 1468 records the betrothal of "la fia de Marco Corner kavalier…Catherina" and "el re Zacco" at Venice, also naming "Andrea Corner…fradello de Marco Corner"[216].  In a document dated 15 Nov [1473] Josaphat Barbaro reports the murder during a Cypriot uprising against the Venetians of "miser Andrea Corner…[e] miser Marco Bembo, fradel de miser Piero" to Venice[217]. 

(3)       daughter .  m GIOVANNI Morosini, son of ---. 

(4)       daughter .  m FRANCESCO Bembo, son of ---. 

(5)       daughter .  m GIOVANNI Foscarini, son of ---. 

(6)       daughter .  m GIOVANNI Malipiero, son of ---. 

(7)       daughter .  m NICOLO Mocenigo, son of ---. 

 

 

ANDREA Contarini (-1382).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1368. 

 

MICHELE Morosini (-1382).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1382. 

 

ANTONIO Venier (-1400).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1382. 

 

MICHELE Steno (-1413).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1400. 

 

TOMASO Mocenigo (-1423).  He was elected Doge of Venice in 1414.