Introduction
This article will cover the life of Pietro Gradenigo, including his early life, his time as the 49th Doge of Venice, Pietro Gradenigo Excommunication, his death, and coinage.
Pietro Gradenigo Early Life
Pietro Gradenigo was born in Venice in 1251 CE. His birth occurred during a time of prosperity for the city-state. His family was one of the oldest and most influential in Venice, with a long history of service to the Republic. Because of his family’s background, Gradenigo was educated in the classics, literature, and law growing up.
From a young age, he showed a talent for diplomacy and was sent to several embassies in neighboring city-states. Eventually, he was even sent to Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire. During his time in Constantinople, he gained valuable experience in international politics and cultivated his interest in trade.
The 49th Doge Of Venice
In 1289 CE, Gradenigo was elected as the 49th Doge of Venice following the death of his predecessor. As Doge, he pursued policies that strengthened Venice’s economy and maintained its position as a dominant force in Mediterranean trade. He also took steps to shore up the city’s defenses and expand its territories, including a successful campaign against the city of Ferrara.
Gradenigo’s reign was not without its challenges, however. He faced opposition from powerful landowners and struggled to balance the competing interests of the city’s noble families. Despite these difficulties, he remained in power for nearly two decades until his death in 1311 CE.
Pietro Gradenigo Excommunication
Pietro is remembered predominately because of his excommunication by Pope Boniface VIII in 1309 CE. This was a result of Gradenigo’s refusal to allow the papal legate, who was sent to Venice to investigate the city’s compliance with papal decrees. Gradenigo argued that Venice had always maintained its own sovereignty and laws, and he could not allow the legate to interfere in the affairs of his city.
This would affect the trade Venice had with other Christian States since Christians were barred from conducting business with the Exiled Republic. The ex-communication had little impact on Gradenigo’s rule, as he continued to govern Venice effectively until his death.
Pietro Gradenigo’s Death
Pietro Gradenigo passed away on the 13th of August, 1311 CE. At the time of his death, Venice was under an interdict imposed by the Catholic church, making it so Pietro wasn’t allowed the usual type of burial and instead was buried in an unmarked grave on Murano.
Today, Gradenigo is remembered as a capable leader who helped shape Venice’s destiny during one of its most prosperous periods. His legacy lives on in the city’s impressive architecture, vibrant culture, and enduring spirit of entrepreneurship.
Venetian Coins
The Venetians, like other Italian states, minted their own coinage. Below is an example of a Venetian coin from the 13th Century. Next to it is a link to all of the silver Italian coins we currently have in stock.
Italian Silver Coins
These are all of the Italian silver Certified and Non-Certified coins we currently have for sale. If you would like to read about the history and country of Italy, we recommend reading our blog post “Italy: A Unified Country.”
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