Anna Porphyrogenita facts for kids

Anna Porphyrogenita (Medieval Greek: Ἄννα Πορφυρογεννήτη, romanized: Anna Porphyrogennētē; 13 March 963 – 1011) was a powerful Byzantine princess. She became the Grand Princess consort of Kiev. She was married to Grand Prince Vladimir I. Her marriage was a very important event. It helped bring Eastern Christianity to the land of Kievan Rus'.

Who Was Anna Porphyrogenita?

Anna was born on March 13, 963, in Constantinople. This city was the capital of the Byzantine Empire. She was the daughter of Byzantine Emperor Romanos II. Her mother was Empress Theophano. Anna was also the sister of two future emperors, Basil II and Constantine VIII.

Born in the Purple

Anna was known as a Porphyrogenita. This special Greek word means "born in the purple." It meant she was born in a special room. This room was inside the Byzantine Emperor's Palace. Being "born in the purple" showed that she was a true royal princess. It meant she was born while her father was already emperor. This made her very important.

Marriage to Vladimir the Great

Anna's marriage was a big deal. Her hand in marriage was highly sought after. Some historians believe that Vladimir the Great decided to become Christian just to marry her.

A Reluctant Bride

Anna did not want to marry Vladimir at first. She was very upset on her journey to the wedding. But Vladimir was impressed by the Byzantine way of life. He especially liked their religious practices. This, along with his marriage to Anna, led him to make a huge decision. He decided to convert to Eastern Christianity.

Queen of Kiev

After marrying Grand Prince Vladimir, Anna became the Grand Princess of Kiev. People often called her Queen or Czarina. This showed her high status. It also showed her connection to the powerful Byzantine Imperial family.

Spreading Christianity in Rus'

Anna played a key role in the Christianization of Rus'. This was the process of making Christianity the main religion. She was a religious adviser to Vladimir. She also helped to build new convents and churches herself.

Anna's Children

It is not fully known if Anna was the biological mother of any of Vladimir's children. However, some experts believe she might have had up to three children with him. For example, some historians think Yaroslav the Wise was Anna's son. This could explain why Yaroslav later got involved in Byzantine affairs. Studies of Yaroslav's remains also suggest he was among Vladimir's younger children. This would fit with Anna being his mother.

See also

In Spanish: Ana Porfirogéneta para niños

• Family life and children of Vladimir I