Stavrakiy Byzantine emperor in 803-811. Country: Greece

1. Biography of Staurakios
2. Coronation and Early Reign
3. Conflict with Patriarch Nikephoros
4. Overthrow and Death

Biography of Staurakios

Staurakios was a Byzantine emperor who reigned from 803 to 811. Little is known about his early life and background.

Coronation and Early Reign

Staurakios was crowned emperor by his father in December 803. However, according to Theophanes, a historian of the time, Staurakios was considered unfit for such a high position due to his lack of appearance, strength, and intelligence.

During his reign, Staurakios was badly wounded by an arrow in the back during a battle in the Varbish Gorge. He was taken to Adrianople for treatment, but his wound did not heal, and he remained bedridden.

Conflict with Patriarch Nikephoros

Patriarch Nikephoros saw an opportunity to exert pressure on the ailing Staurakios and demanded the return of the Church's wealth and privileges that had been reduced during the reign of Nikephoros Genikos. However, Staurakios refused to comply with these demands.

Faced with his deteriorating health and the pressure from the Patriarch, Staurakios attempted to pass the throne to his spouse or introduce democracy among Christians as an additional solution to his predicament.

Overthrow and Death

A group of courtiers, aware of the emperor's vulnerability, conspired to remove him from power. Since Staurakios had no children, his relative, Michael Rangabe, the curopalate, began to claim the throne even before Staurakios's death.

By the time Staurakios learned of these rumors, he was already surrounded by traitors. He wanted to blind his rival, but his weakened condition prevented him from doing so. The clique supporting Rangabe decided to take action, and on October 2, 811, Staurakios was deposed.

Despite his treacherous actions, Staurakios tried to assure his successor of his loyalty, fearing for his own life. Michael, out of pity, allowed Staurakios to remain in the capital, where he eventually died on January 11 of the following year.