What was the Barony of Passavant, and to which larger political entity did it belong?

The Barony of Passavant was a medieval Frankish fiefdom, meaning it was a territory granted by a lord to a vassal under the feudal system, and it was part of the larger political entity known as the Principality of Achaea.

Where was the Barony of Passavant geographically located?

The Barony of Passavant was geographically located in the mountainous interior of the Peloponnese, a large peninsula in southern Greece, specifically positioned between the Mani peninsula and the plain of Laconia.

What was the approximate timeframe of the Barony of Passavant's existence as a Frankish fiefdom?

The Barony of Passavant existed as a Frankish territory from its establishment around 1220 until it was conquered by the Byzantines around 1263.

What event marked the end of the Barony of Passavant's existence as a Frankish fiefdom?

The end of the Barony of Passavant as a Frankish entity occurred when it was conquered by the Byzantines, the rulers of the Eastern Roman Empire, in the early 1260s, specifically around 1263.

What was the capital or central fortress of the Barony of Passavant?

The central stronghold and capital of the Barony of Passavant was Passavant Castle, which is also referred to as Passava, serving as the administrative and defensive heart of the barony.

What are the geographical coordinates provided for the Barony of Passavant?

The geographical coordinates provided for the Barony of Passavant are 36 degrees, 43 minutes North latitude and 22 degrees, 30 minutes East longitude, pinpointing its location on Earth.

What type of historical entity is described as the Barony of Passavant?

The Barony of Passavant is described as a feudal lordship, indicating a system of governance based on land ownership and reciprocal obligations between lords and vassals in medieval times.

During which broad historical period did the Barony of Passavant function?

The barony functioned during the Middle Ages, a broad historical period in Europe that followed antiquity and preceded the Renaissance, characterized by feudal societies and monarchies.

What was the significance of the map shown in relation to the Barony of Passavant?

The accompanying map illustrates key locations within the Peloponnese during the late Middle Ages, offering essential geographical context for understanding the placement and extent of the Barony of Passavant.

Who was the first knight granted the Barony of Passavant, and when was this?

The Barony of Passavant was established for John de Nully, a French knight, shortly after 1218 or 1220, indicating that military leaders were granted land and authority in the newly conquered territories.

What is the probable etymological origin of the name "Passavant" or "Passava"?

The name "Passavant" or "Passava" is believed to originate from the French phrase "passe avant," which could have been a war-cry or family motto, and the name also appears as a place name in northeastern France.

What is the presumed familial background of John de Nully?

John de Nully, the first Baron of Passavant, is thought to be the son of Vilain of Nully, who was known to be a close associate of the prominent medieval historian Geoffrey of Villehardouin.

When did John de Nully likely arrive in the Peloponnese to establish his barony?

John de Nully likely arrived in the Peloponnese to establish his barony around the year 1220, having committed to the Crusades by taking the cross in 1218.

What was the territorial extent of the Barony of Passavant in terms of knight's fiefs?

The Barony of Passavant likely encompassed newly acquired territory and was organized into four knight's fiefs, which were land grants given to knights in exchange for military service.

What was the strategic military importance of the Barony of Passavant?

The barony held significant military importance by serving as a watchpoint over the often rebellious Maniots and the Slavic populations residing on Mount Taygetos, helping to maintain control in the region.

What hereditary title did John de Nully hold in the Principality of Achaea?

John de Nully was appointed as the hereditary marshal of Achaea, a position that involved overseeing military affairs and was passed down through his lineage.

What does the source text indicate about the detailed information available regarding the barony's fiefs?

According to the provided text, historical sources offer very little specific information regarding the Barony of Passavant itself or the details of its constituent fiefs.

What historical conjecture by Karl Hopf concerning the barons of Passavant was later disputed?

The historian Karl Hopf proposed a theory that there were two successive barons named John of Passavant, a conjecture that was later disputed and rejected by the historian Antoine Bon.

Who did John de Nully marry, and what was her connection to another prominent baron?

John de Nully married a sister of Walter of Rosières, who held the position of Baron of Akova, establishing a familial connection between these two baronies.

Who was the designated heiress to both the Barony of Passavant and the Barony of Akova?

Margaret of Passavant, the sole daughter of John de Nully, was designated as the common heiress, meaning she was entitled to inherit both the Barony of Passavant and the Barony of Akova.

What prevented Margaret of Passavant from immediately inheriting her family's lands?

Margaret's ability to claim her inheritance was significantly delayed because she was held in Constantinople as a hostage at the Byzantine court, a situation that lasted from 1262 until around 1275.

When did the Byzantines first launch offensives into the Peloponnese that affected the barony?

The Byzantines initiated their initial military campaigns into the Peloponnese around 1263, and during these offensives, the Barony of Passavant was captured.

What led to the confiscation of the Barony of Akova by the Prince of Achaea?

The Barony of Akova was confiscated by the Prince of Achaea as a consequence of Margaret's prolonged delay in asserting her claim to the inheritance, a delay caused by her status as a hostage.

What was the ultimate resolution of Margaret of Passavant's claim to her inheritance?

Following a period of legal contention, Margaret of Passavant ultimately succeeded in regaining possession of a portion of her inheritance, specifically one-third of the Barony of Akova.

What specific Byzantine entity succeeded the Barony of Passavant after its reconquest?

The reconquest of Passavant by the Byzantine Empire in 1263 led to the eventual establishment of the Despotate of the Morea, a Byzantine administrative region that took over the territory previously held by the barony.

What event in 1248 is mentioned as contributing to the pacification of Laconia?

The pacification of Laconia was completed around 1248 with the capture of Monemvasia, the final Byzantine stronghold in the area, indicating that the region was not fully under Frankish control before this event.

What were the primary functions of the Barony of Passavant in relation to local populations?

The Barony of Passavant played a crucial role in maintaining regional control by monitoring the independent-minded Maniots and the Slavic populations who inhabited the slopes of Mount Taygetos.

What does the term Frankokratia refer to in the context of the Barony of Passavant?

The term Frankokratia describes the period of Frankish rule established in Greece after the Fourth Crusade, during which the Barony of Passavant was created as part of the Principality of Achaea.

What does the term feudal lordship imply about the Barony of Passavant's structure?

Describing the barony as a feudal lordship implies a system of governance where land ownership and authority were based on reciprocal obligations, such as military service and loyalty, between a lord and his vassals.

What does the term Principality of Achaea signify in relation to the Barony of Passavant?

The Principality of Achaea was the overarching feudal state established by the Crusaders in the Peloponnese, and the Barony of Passavant functioned as one of its subordinate territorial divisions.

What does the term Byzantines refer to in the context of the barony's conquest?

The term "Byzantines" refers to the people and government of the Eastern Roman Empire, who were actively engaged in reconquering territories in the Peloponnese from the Frankish rulers.

What does the term knight's fiefs suggest about the organization of the barony?

The term "knight's fiefs" indicates that the barony's territory was subdivided into land grants, each assigned to a knight who was obligated to provide military service to the baron.

What does the term hereditary marshal imply about John de Nully's role?

Being named the hereditary marshal of Achaea signifies that John de Nully held a significant military office, responsible for organizing and leading troops, with the right to pass this position to his descendants.

What does the term hostage imply about Margaret of Passavant's situation in Constantinople?

Margaret of Passavant being held as a hostage implies she was kept by the Byzantine court as a form of security or guarantee for political agreements, restricting her personal freedom and her capacity to manage her inherited lands.

What does the term legal struggle suggest about Margaret's efforts to reclaim her inheritance?

The mention of a "legal struggle" implies that Margaret of Passavant had to pursue formal legal channels, possibly involving disputes and opposition, to assert and secure her claim to her inherited lands.

What does the term Despotate of the Morea imply about the Byzantine resurgence in the Peloponnese?

The Despotate of the Morea was a Byzantine administrative region established in the Peloponnese after the Byzantine reconquest, taking over the governance of territories previously held by Frankish entities like the Barony of Passavant.

What does the term "unruly Maniots" imply about the population the barony was meant to control?

The description "unruly Maniots" suggests that the inhabitants of the Mani peninsula were historically known for their strong independent spirit and potential resistance to outside authority, necessitating the barony's role in monitoring them.

What does the term "Slavic inhabitants" imply about the demographic makeup of Mount Taygetos?

The mention of "Slavic inhabitants" indicates that Slavic peoples had settled in the mountainous areas of the Peloponnese, such as Mount Taygetos, and their presence was a factor that the Barony of Passavant was tasked with monitoring.

What does the term Middle Ages imply about the technological and societal context of the barony?

The term "Middle Ages" implies a historical context characterized by feudal societal structures, military systems reliant on cavalry and castles, and an economy primarily based on land ownership and agricultural production.

What does the term Principality of Achaea imply about the political structure of the Peloponnese after the Fourth Crusade?

The term "Principality of Achaea" suggests that the Peloponnese was organized as a feudal state under the rule of a Prince, divided into subordinate lordships such as the Barony of Passavant.

What does the term Frankokratia imply about the nature of Frankish rule in Greece?

The term Frankokratia implies the imposition and establishment of Western European feudal structures, customs, and governance in territories that were previously part of the Byzantine Empire.

What does the term feudal lordship imply about the barony's governance?

A "feudal lordship" implies a hierarchical system of governance where land tenure and political authority were linked to mutual obligations, primarily military service and loyalty, between a lord and his vassals.

What does the term "seized" or "conquered" imply about the transition of power in Passavant?

The terms "seized" or "conquered" imply a forceful transfer of control over the territory, where the Byzantine forces took possession of the Barony of Passavant from its Frankish rulers.

What does the term "common heiress" imply about Margaret of Passavant's inheritance?

The term "common heiress" signifies that Margaret of Passavant was the sole individual entitled to inherit the rights and lands associated with both the Barony of Passavant and the Barony of Akova.

What does the term "hostage" imply about the political climate between the Franks and Byzantines?

Margaret of Passavant being held as a hostage suggests a period of political tension and negotiation between the Frankish and Byzantine powers, where individuals were used as collateral to secure agreements or prevent conflict.

What does the term "legal struggle" imply about the process of inheritance in feudal societies?

The phrase "legal struggle" implies that Margaret of Passavant had to engage in formal legal proceedings, possibly involving disputes and opposition, to assert and secure her claim to her inherited lands.

What does the term "Despotate of the Morea" signify as the successor entity to the Barony of Passavant?

The Despotate of the Morea was a Byzantine administrative territory that emerged in the Peloponnese following the Byzantine reconquest, taking over the governance of territories previously held by Frankish entities like the Barony of Passavant.

What does the term "Mani peninsula" signify in the geographical description of the barony?

The Mani peninsula is a distinct geographical area in the southern Peloponnese, historically characterized by its rugged landscape and inhabitants known for their fierce independence, which the barony was tasked with overseeing.

What does the term "Laconia" signify in the geographical description of the barony?

Laconia is a historically significant region in the southern Peloponnese, famously known as the homeland of ancient Sparta, and it bordered the Barony of Passavant, which played a role in its pacification.

What does the term "Mount Taygetos" signify in the context of the barony's role?

Mount Taygetos is a prominent mountain range within the Peloponnese, and the Barony of Passavant was strategically positioned to monitor the Slavic populations who inhabited its slopes.

Barony Of Passavant Wiki: Passavant: A Medieval Stronghold in the Peloponnese

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Overview

A Strategic Feudatory

The Barony of Passavant, also known as Passava, was a significant feudal lordship established within the Principality of Achaea. Situated in the rugged mountainous terrain between the Mani peninsula and the plain of Laconia in the Peloponnese, Greece, it was strategically positioned to oversee local populations. The barony was one of the twelve original secular fiefs granted following the Frankish conquest of the region, though its formal establishment occurred later than most.

Geographical Context

The barony's territory was centered around the formidable fortress of Passavant (or Passava). Its location in the Peloponnese placed it within a region rich in history and strategic importance during the medieval period. The name "Passavant" itself likely originates from the French war-cry or family motto, "passe avant", though it also corresponds to toponyms in northeastern France, suggesting the origins of its founding family.

Historical Period

The Barony of Passavant existed as a Frankish fief from approximately 1220 until its reconquest by the Byzantine Empire around 1263. This period falls within the broader context of the Latin East and the fragmentation of Byzantine territories following the Fourth Crusade.

Establishment and Purpose

Foundation of the Barony

The Barony of Passavant was established shortly after 1218 or 1220 for the French knight John de Nully. This occurred later than the formation of most other original baronies of the Principality of Achaea, which were largely organized around 1209. John de Nully, believed to be a close associate of Geoffrey of Villehardouin, arrived in the Peloponnese around 1220. His barony likely encompassed newly conquered lands, contributing to the full pacification of Laconia, which was completed with the fall of Monemvasia circa 1248.

Military Significance

The strategic placement of the Passavant fortress was crucial for maintaining control over the region. It served to monitor the often-rebellious Maniots and the Slavic inhabitants residing on Mount Taygetos. In recognition of his role and likely his military prowess, John de Nully was appointed the hereditary marshal of Achaea. The barony was endowed with four knight's fiefs, underscoring its importance within the principality's feudal structure.

Lords and Succession

John de Nully and His Heirs

John de Nully, the first Baron of Passavant, married a sister of Walter of Rosières, the Baron of Akova. This union resulted in a single daughter, Margaret of Passavant. Margaret was destined to inherit both Passavant and Akova. However, her inheritance was complicated by political circumstances. She resided in Constantinople as a hostage at the Byzantine court from 1262 until approximately 1275.

Inheritance Disputes

While Margaret was held hostage, the political landscape shifted. Passavant fell to the Byzantines during their initial offensive campaigns in the Peloponnese around 1263. Concurrently, the Barony of Akova was confiscated by the Prince of Achaea due to Margaret's delayed claim. Following a protracted legal dispute, Margaret was eventually granted back only one-third of the Barony of Akova, highlighting the precarious nature of feudal claims and inheritance during this turbulent era.

Historical Context

Scholarly Debates

Historical records regarding the Barony of Passavant and its fiefs are notably sparse. The historian Karl Hopf proposed a theory suggesting the existence of two barons named John to account for the period between the barony's foundation and the 1260s. However, this hypothesis was later refuted by the scholar Antoine Bon, who based his conclusions on a more critical examination of the available sources.

The Frankish Era

The Barony of Passavant represents a key element in the Frankish administration of the Peloponnese after the Fourth Crusade. Its establishment reflects the strategic imperatives of the Principality of Achaea in consolidating its control over the peninsula. The barony's existence, though brief, highlights the complex feudal system and the constant interplay between Frankish rulers and the indigenous populations.

Geographical Coordinates

Precise Location Data

The historical territory of the Barony of Passavant is situated in the Peloponnese region of Greece. Its precise geographical coordinates are:

Coordinates

36°43′N 22°30′E 36.717°N 22.500°E

This location places it strategically within the mountainous interior of the Peloponnese.

Byzantine Reconquest

Loss of the Barony

The Barony of Passavant ceased to exist as a Frankish fief around 1263. During the initial offensive campaigns launched by the Byzantine Empire into the Peloponnese, the fortress and surrounding territory were recaptured. This marked the end of the barony's period under Frankish rule and its reintegration into the Byzantine sphere of influence, specifically under the Despotate of the Morea.

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References

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This document has been meticulously generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing exclusively from provided source material. It is intended for academic and informational purposes, offering a structured overview of the Barony of Passavant. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the source, users are advised that the content represents a specific interpretation and may not encompass all historical nuances or scholarly perspectives.

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Passavant: A Medieval Stronghold

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

🏰 A Strategic Feudatory

🗺️ Geographical Context

⏳ Historical Period

Establishment and Purpose 🏗️

👑 Foundation of the Barony

🛡️ Military Significance

Lords and Succession 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

📜 John de Nully and His Heirs

⚖️ Inheritance Disputes

Historical Context 🕰️

🤔 Scholarly Debates

⚔️ The Frankish Era

Geographical Coordinates 📍

🧭 Precise Location Data

📍 Coordinates

Byzantine Reconquest 🛡️

⚔️ Loss of the Barony

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice for Scholars

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

A Strategic Feudatory

Geographical Context

Historical Period

Establishment and Purpose

Foundation of the Barony

Military Significance

Lords and Succession

John de Nully and His Heirs

Inheritance Disputes

Historical Context

Scholarly Debates

The Frankish Era

Geographical Coordinates

Precise Location Data

Coordinates

Byzantine Reconquest

Loss of the Barony

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice for Scholars