Theodore I, Marquis of Montferrat facts for kids

Theodore I Palaiologos (born around 1290 – died April 24, 1338) was an important ruler known as the Marquis of Montferrat. He held this title from 1306 until his death. Theodore was part of a powerful family, the Palaeologus-Montferrat dynasty.

Becoming Marquis of Montferrat

Theodore was the son of Emperor Andronikos II Palaiologos and Irene of Montferrat. His mother, Irene, came from the ruling family of Montferrat.

In 1305, Theodore's uncle, John I, died without any sons. This meant that the male line of the Aleramici family, who had ruled Montferrat, ended. Because of this, the region of Montferrat was passed to Irene's children.

Theodore's older brother, John, was first considered to rule Montferrat. However, for some reason, he could not take the position. So, Theodore traveled to Italy to become the new Marquis.

Theodore's Journey and Marriage

In 1306, Theodore sailed to Genoa, a powerful city in Italy. The next year, in 1307, he married Argentina Spinola. She was the daughter of Opicino Spinola, a very wealthy and influential leader in Genoa. Opicino used his money and power to help Theodore become the ruler of Montferrat.

Securing His Rule

Taking control of Montferrat was not easy for Theodore. He faced challenges from other powerful people. Manfred IV of Saluzzo was one of his opponents. Also, King Charles II of Naples claimed parts of the Montferrat region.

Theodore worked hard to overcome these enemies. Slowly, he managed to secure control over the entire region of Montferrat. In 1310, he received official recognition from Emperor Henry VII, which made his rule even stronger.

Theodore I died in Trino in 1338. His son, John II Palaiologos, took over as Marquis after him.

Family Life

Theodore and his wife, Argentina Spinola, had two children:

• John II (1313–1372), who became the next Marquis of Montferrat.
• Yolande (1318–1342), who married Aimone, Count of Savoy, another important ruler.

Theodore's Writings

Theodore I was not just a ruler; he was also a writer! He wrote a special book about military strategies and how to govern. It was called Les Enseignemens ou Ordenances pour un Siegneur qui a Guerres et Grans Gouvernemens a Faire. People often call it Les enseignements for short.

He wrote this book in Greek between 1326 and 1327 while he was in Constantinople. Today, we only have a French translation of it. This book is very interesting because it was not based on older Roman military texts. It shows us how military leaders thought in the late Byzantine and Medieval times.

See also

In Spanish: Teodoro I de Montferrato para niños