Smaragdus
Smaragdus served as the Exarch of Ravenna for two distinct periods, from 585 to 589 and again from 603 to 611. He is remembered for his military campaigns against the Lombards, his violent suppression of schismatic bishops, and his political maneuvering during the reign of Emperor Phocas. His actions significantly impacted the political and religious landscape of Italy during his tenure.
- Century
- 7th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Smaragdus was Exarch of Ravenna from 585 to 589 and again from 603 to 611.
- ›During his first tenure, he allied with the Franks and Avars against the Lombards, recovering the port of Ravenna, Classis, in 588.
- ›He was known for his violence towards followers of the schism of the three Chapters, forcing Archbishop Severinus to declare loyalty to the Orthodox creed.
- ›Allegations of insanity contributed to his removal from office in 589.
- ›Restored by Emperor Phocas in 603, he inherited a war with the Lombards and eventually secured peace by releasing hostages.
- ›Smaragdus erected a gilded statue of Phocas on the column of Phocas in the Roman Forum.
Smaragdus
About Smaragdus
Smaragdus was a significant figure in the Exarchate of Ravenna, serving as its Exarch during two separate periods: from 585 to 589 and again from 603 to 611. His tenures were marked by critical political and military engagements, particularly concerning the ongoing conflict with the Lombards.
Life and Historical Context
During his first term as Exarch, Smaragdus sought to curb the growing power of the Lombards. He forged an alliance with the Franks and the Avars, creating a formidable coalition that appeared poised to challenge Lombard dominance in Italy. A notable success during this period was the recapture of Classis, the vital port of Ravenna, from Lombard control in 588. However, this ambitious effort to extinguish Lombard power ultimately faltered, partly due to the Franks' less committed involvement.
Smaragdus is also remembered for his harsh treatment of those involved in the schism of the Three Chapters. He engaged in violent actions against the followers of schismatic bishops, notably Severinus, the Archbishop of Aquileia. Smaragdus compelled Severinus and his adherents to attend a synod in Ravenna and subsequently forced the archbishop to affirm his adherence to the Orthodox creed. These actions, coupled with accusations of insanity, led to his removal from office in 589.
Second Tenure and Later Years
In 603, the Byzantine Emperor Phocas reinstated Smaragdus to his former position. His second exarchate was immediately embroiled in the ongoing war with the Lombards. Smaragdus refused to relinquish Lombard King Agilulf's daughter and her husband, who had been taken prisoner by the Byzantines in 601. This led to further conflict, with Agilulf, aided by the Avars, capturing and razing Cremona in August 605 and taking Mantua shortly thereafter. To achieve peace, Smaragdus was compelled to release the hostages in April 605, a peace that endured for the remainder of his administration.
Smaragdus's reign concluded following the deposition of Emperor Phocas by Heraclius in 610. Smaragdus was subsequently replaced by John I, marking the end of his service as Exarch.
Notable Actions
Beyond his political and military roles, Smaragdus is known for commissioning a gilded statue of Emperor Phocas, which was erected on the column of Phocas in the Roman Forum, a prominent landmark in Rome.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Smaragdus's main periods of service as Exarch of Ravenna?
Smaragdus served as the Exarch of Ravenna during two distinct periods. His first tenure was from 585 to 589, and his second tenure was from 603 to 611.
What were Smaragdus's notable actions during his first term as Exarch?
During his initial term, Smaragdus formed an alliance with the Franks and Avars against the Lombards. A key military achievement was the recovery of Classis, the port of Ravenna, from Lombard control in 588.
Why was Smaragdus removed from office in 589?
Smaragdus was removed from his position in 589 due to his violent actions against the followers of schismatic bishops, particularly in relation to the schism of the Three Chapters. Allegations of insanity also contributed to his dismissal.
What challenges did Smaragdus face upon his return as Exarch in 603?
Upon his reinstatement in 603, Smaragdus inherited a war with the Lombards from his predecessor. He was involved in a dispute over Lombard hostages and faced sieges of cities like Cremona and Mantua.
What was Smaragdus's role in the political climate of Emperor Phocas's reign?
Smaragdus was restored to his position by Emperor Phocas in 603. He also erected a gilded statue of Phocas on the column of Phocas in the Roman Forum, signifying his allegiance.
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