Manuel I Komnenos

Reign: 1143 – 1180
Life: 1118–1180

His reign saw the last flowering of the Komnenian restoration, during which the Byzantine Empire experienced a resurgence of military and economic power and enjoyed a cultural revival. Eager to restore his empire to its past glories as the great power of the Mediterranean world, Manuel pursued an energetic and ambitious foreign policy. The passage of the potentially dangerous Second Crusade through his empire was adroitly managed. Manuel established a Byzantine protectorate over the Crusader states of Outremer.

During Manuel I Komnenos' reign, Afonso I of Portugal ruled Portugal, Henry II of England ruled England, and Alfonso VIII of Castile ruled Spain.

Want to learn more? Further reading

Byzantium: The Surprising Life of a Medieval Empire by Judith Herrin

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The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

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Byzantium: The Surprising Life of a Medieval Empire

Judith Herrin

Manuel I, diplomacy, crusades, and the last great Komnenian emperor.

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