Marozia facts for kids

Marozia, also known as Maria or Mariozza, was a powerful Roman noblewoman born around 890. She was given special titles like senatrix (meaning "senatoress") and patricia of Rome by Pope John X. Historian Edward Gibbon noted that Marozia's power came from her wealth, beauty, and clever political moves. She had a huge impact on the Popes of her time. Her son, two grandsons, two great-grandsons, and one great-great-grandson all became Popes, which is very unusual! Her nephew, Pope John XIII, was also a Pope.

Early Life and Family Connections

Marozia was born around 890. Her father was Theophylact, Count of Tusculum, a Roman leader. Her mother, Theodora, was also very influential in Rome.

Marozia had a son named John, who later became Pope John XI. Some historical writings suggest his father was Pope Sergius III. However, other sources say John was the son of Marozia's first husband, Alberic I of Spoleto.

In 909, Marozia married Alberic I of Spoleto, who was a duke. Their son, Alberic II of Spoleto, was born a few years later, around 911 or 912. After Alberic I died in 924, powerful Roman families gained more control over the city. At this time, Rome was mostly controlled by these families rather than the Church leaders.

Marozia's Influence and Power

To increase her family's power, Marozia later married Guy of Tuscany, who was an opponent of Pope John X. Marozia and Guy attacked Rome. They arrested Pope John X and put him in prison in the Castel Sant'Angelo. In 928, Pope John X died while imprisoned.

After this, Marozia took control of Rome in a sudden takeover. The Popes who followed, Pope Leo VI and Pope Stephen VII, were chosen by her and followed her directions. In 931, she managed to have her own son, John, become Pope Pope John XI when he was only 21 years old.

Later Years and Legacy

Guy of Tuscany died in 929. Marozia then planned to marry his half-brother, Hugh of Arles, who was the King of Italy. However, during their wedding celebration in 932, Hugh had a disagreement with Marozia's son, Alberic II. Alberic II then led an uprising against them. Hugh managed to escape, but Marozia was captured.

Marozia died after being held in prison for about five years. Even after her death, her family continued to be very involved in choosing Popes. Her grandson, Octavian, became Pope John XII in 955. Other Popes, including Pope Benedict VIII, Pope John XIX, and Pope Benedict IX, were also descendants of Marozia.

Family Tree

Images for kids

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  An old picture showing the wedding of Marozia and Hugh of Italy.

See also

In Spanish: Marozia para niños