Treaty of Devol

The Treaty of Devol was an agreement signed in 1108 between Bohemund I, Prince of Antioch, and the Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Comnenus as a result of the First Crusade.

Background

In 1096, the Crusader armies gathered in Constantinople after marching separately through Europe. Their commanders undertook to return to the Byzantine Empire all the former Byzantine lands they could conquer. However, Bohemund, the son of Robert Guiscard, a former opponent of the Empire, decided to found the principality of independent Antioch.

The Treaty

The treaty aimed to make the Principality of Antioch a vassal state of the Byzantine Empire. It was intended that the Principality would be subject to the authority of the Emperor and would provide military support when required. However, the treaty did not enter into force immediately, and it was not applied.

Significance

The Treaty of Devol derives its name from the Byzantine fortress of Devol in Albania. The treaty's significance lies in its attempt to establish a vassal relationship between the Principality of Antioch and the Byzantine Empire. However, Bohemund's decision to found an independent principality led to hostilities against the Byzantine Empire, which ultimately forced him to surrender and negotiate with Alexios I.

Aftermath

Bohemund went to Europe to seek reinforcements, but he was eventually forced to return and negotiate with Alexios I at the Imperial Palace. The treaty marked a significant turning point in the relationship between the Principality of Antioch and the Byzantine Empire, setting the stage for future conflicts and power struggles.

References

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