Founding of the Duchy of the Archipelago: What Happened
Around 1207, following the Fourth Crusade, the Venetian nobleman Marco Sanudo led a private expedition that conquered many of the Cycladic islands in the Aegean Sea. He made Naxos his capital and founded a state known as the Duchy of the Archipelago, or the Duchy of Naxos. Sanudo built a castle on the hill above the town of Naxos, and his fortified town, known today as the Kastro, still stands, with Venetian mansions and coats of arms over its doorways. The duchy included islands such as Paros, Milos, Ios, Santorini and Syros, while other islands were given to his supporters as fiefs. Although founded by a Venetian, the duchy was largely independent of Venice. Over the centuries, it faced attacks by pirates and later by the Ottomans. In 1383, the Crispo family replaced the Sanudo line, ruling until 1566, when the Ottomans took control of the islands. The Latin presence left a lasting legacy in the Cyclades, where Roman Catholic communities still exist today, especially on Syros and Tinos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Duchy of the Archipelago?
The Duchy of the Archipelago was a state founded around 1207 by the Venetian Marco Sanudo, ruling many of the Cycladic islands from Naxos.
Who was Marco Sanudo?
Marco Sanudo was a Venetian nobleman who led a private expedition after the Fourth Crusade, conquering many Cycladic islands and founding the duchy.
What is the Kastro of Naxos?
The Kastro is the fortified old town on the hill above Naxos town, built by Sanudo. It still has Venetian mansions with coats of arms over the doorways.
When did the Duchy of the Archipelago end?
The duchy lasted until 1566, when the Ottomans took control of the islands. The Crispo family had replaced the Sanudo dynasty in 1383.
Why are there Catholics in the Cyclades?
The Latin presence from this period left a lasting Roman Catholic community in the Cyclades, especially on Syros and Tinos, which continues today.
