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Jordan HautevilleIllegitimate son of Roger I of Sicily, Count of Syracuse and Noto
Date of Birth: 01.01.1060
Country:  Italy |
Content:
- Illegitimate Son of Roger I
- Military Prowess
- Rebellion and Reconciliation
- Sicilian Campaigns and Ambition
- Demise and Legacy
Illegitimate Son of Roger I
Jordan was the illegitimate son of Roger I of Sicily, the first Norman count of Sicily. His mother's name remains unknown. Despite Malaterra's repeated emphasis on his bastardy, some scholars believe he was conceived by Roger I and his first wife, Judith of Hauteville.
Military Prowess
In 1077, Jordan's military prowess was first documented when he led a surprise attack on Trapani, capturing its livestock and forcing its surrender. In subsequent years, he played significant roles in the sieges of Taormina (1078) and Catania (1081), which was retaken from the Arabs after betrayal by the Emir of Syracuse.
Rebellion and Reconciliation
In 1082, Jordan became regent of Sicily while his father campaigned in southern Italy. However, the following year, he became embroiled in a rebellion against his absent father. His forces seized Mistretta and San Marco d'Alunzio, but upon Roger I's swift return, the rebellion was quashed. Jordan was imprisoned, and twelve of his advisors were blinded. Despite this, he was eventually pardoned and reinstated.
Sicilian Campaigns and Ambition
Jordan participated in the victorious sieges of Syracuse (1085) and Noto (1091), subsequently receiving the titles of count of Syracuse and Noto. When Roger I prepared for an expedition to Malta, Jordan requested to lead the campaign but was expressly forbidden from entering cities that were not under his control. Nonetheless, as Roger I's only legitimate son, Godfrey, was a leper, Jordan was likely considered a potential successor.
Demise and Legacy
In 1092, Jordan succumbed to a fever and passed away. His resting place is marked by a stone bearing an inscription commemorating his death, located in the church of Mili San Pietro. Jordan married one of the daughters of Boniface of Savoy in 1089, but no information exists regarding any potential descendants.
