Maria of Antioch-Armenia facts for kids

Maria of Antioch-Armenia (born in 1215, died in 1257) was a powerful noblewoman during the Middle Ages. She held the title of Lady of Toron from 1229 until her death. Maria was the older daughter of Raymond-Roupen, who was a prince of Antioch, and Helvis of Lusignan. She received her title as Lady of Toron and her claim to the throne of Armenia through her father's family.

Becoming Lady of Toron

Maria's grandmother, Alice, became the Lady of Toron before Maria. This happened after the Sixth Crusade. During this time, Emperor Frederick II made an agreement. He helped get back lands that had been taken by Saladin. Toron was one of these lands.

When Alice passed away, Maria became the next Lady of Toron. This was because Maria was the closest living relative to Alice.

Her Family and Children

In 1240, Maria married Philip of Montfort, Lord of Tyre. Philip had previously been the lord of Castres. Maria and Philip had several children together:

• Jean de Montfort (died 1283). He later became the lord of Toron and Tyre.
• Humphrey of Montfort (died 1284). He became the lord of Beirut and also of Tyre.
• Alix. She was alive in 1282 and in 1295.
• Helvis. She was also alive in 1282 and in 1295.

Claiming the Throne of Armenia

Maria was the great-granddaughter of Roupen III. He was a prince of Armenia. Roupen III's daughter was Alice, Maria's grandmother. After Roupen III, his brother Leo I became the ruler.

Because of her family connections, Maria believed she had a right to the throne of Armenia. However, her claim was not successful. Both her father and her grandmother had also tried to claim the Armenian throne before her, but they also failed.

See also

In Spanish: María de Antioquía-Armenia para niños