Zaccaria

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**Zaccaria**
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The Zaccaria family was a noble Genoese family that played a significant role in the development and consolidation of the Republic of Genoa in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. The family's influence extended beyond their native city, with branches in Greece, where they produced the last ruling dynasty of the Principality of Achaea.

**History**
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The Zaccaria family originated in Focæa, an important commercial port in the Peloponese region of Greece. They established relationships with prominent families in Genoa through strategic marriages. One notable example is Orietta Zaccaria, who married Reinaldo Spinola, a member of another influential Genoese family.

The family's fortunes rose during the 13th century, with Benedetto II (also known as Paleologo) inheriting the title of Signore di Focaia and Chios after his father's death in 1307. His sons, Martino Zaccaria and Benedetto III, continued to expand the family's territories, including Samos, Tenedos, Marmora, Mytilene, and other areas.

**Notable Members**
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* **Centurione I Zaccaria**: The eldest living son of Benedetto II, who inherited his father's titles and strengthened his position in Latin Greece. He married the daughter of Andronikos Asen, a Bulgarian nobleman.
* **Martino Zaccaria**: A notable member of the family, who dominated Focea and Chios until he was overthrown by the Byzantine Emperor Andrónico III Paleologist in 1344.
* **Benedetto II (Paleologo)**: The son of Benedeto Zaccaria, who inherited the title of Signore di Focaia and Chios after his father's death. He also became the ruler of Samos and other territories.
* **Centurione II Zaccaria**: A descendant of Martino Zaccaria, who married into the Morean nobility and eventually became despot of Morea.

**Legacy**
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The Zaccaria family's legacy extends beyond their historical significance in Greece. According to some sources, the surname "Zaccaria" may be a deformation or distortion of an earlier name. The family's descendants are believed to continue to date, with some tracing their lineage back to South America.

**References**
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* [1] "Families of Italy"
* [2] "Lord of Chios"

Note: The references provided are fictional and used only for demonstration purposes. In a real-world scenario, the article would include actual sources and citations.