Florence Sanudo facts for kids

Florence Sanudo (also known as Fiorenza) was an important ruler of the Duchy of the Archipelago. She was the Duchess from 1362 to 1371. During part of this time, she ruled alongside her second husband.

Her Early Life and First Marriage

Florence Sanudo was the daughter of John I Sanudo, who was also a Duke of the Archipelago. When her father passed away, Florence became the new Duchess in 1362.

Before becoming Duchess, Florence was married to Giovanni dalle Carceri. He was the Lord of Euboea, another important area. Sadly, Giovanni passed away in 1358, leaving Florence a young widow with one son.

Finding a New Husband

As Duchess, Florence was very important. Many powerful men wanted to marry her. This was because marrying her would give them control or influence over her duchy, which was a group of islands.

One man who wanted to marry her was a Genoese Lord from Chios. However, the Republic of Venice did not want this marriage to happen. Venice was a very powerful city-state at the time. They wanted Florence to marry a Venetian man. This would make sure the Duchy of the Archipelago stayed friendly with Venice. Venice even warned Florence not to marry anyone who was an enemy of their republic.

Later, Nerio I Acciajuoli proposed to Florence. He would later become the Duke of Athens. Florence seemed willing to marry him. But Venice protested again. They said Florence's duchy existed because of Venice's help. Venice even sent its fleet to stop Nerio from landing on the islands.

A Forced Marriage

Because of all this political fighting, Duchess Florence was taken by a Venetian ship to Crete. Crete was controlled by Venice. She was treated well there, but she was told she could not leave. She had to agree to marry the man Venice wanted her to marry.

This man was her cousin, Nicholas II Sanudo. He was also known as Nicholas Spezzabanda. People said Nicholas was handsome. Whatever the reason, Florence agreed to the marriage. The wedding happened in 1364.

The Venetians gave Nicholas the title of Consort Duke. He was a good co-ruler and stayed loyal to Venice.

Her Death and Successor

Florence Sanudo passed away in 1371. Her son from her first marriage, Nicholas III dalle Carceri, became the new Duke. Since Nicholas III was still young, his stepfather, Nicholas Spezzabanda, ruled as regent for him.

Her Children

By Giovanni dalle Carceri:

• Nicholas III dalle Carceri

By Nicholas Spezzabanda:

• Maria Sanudo, Lady of Andros
• Elisabetta Sanudo

See also

In Spanish: Florencia Sanudo para niños