Exarchate of Ravenna and the Exarch of Ravenna

The Exarchate of Ravenna was a unique administrative division of the Byzantine Empire, established in the late 6th century as a response to the ongoing Lombard invasions and the need for a stronger presence in Italy. The exarchate served as a vital link between the Byzantine Empire and its Italian territories, combining both civil and military authority under the leadership of an exarch. The exarch was the emperor's representative, tasked with maintaining imperial control over the region.

Historical Context

The creation of the Exarchate of Ravenna occurred during a period of significant disruption in Italy, following the fall of the Western Roman Empire. By the late 6th century, the Ostrogothic Kingdom had been subdued, but the Lombards posed a new threat. The Byzantine response under Emperor Maurice led to the establishment of the exarchate, with Ravenna as its capital.

Role of the Exarch

The exarch held a unique position, wielding extensive viceroy powers that encompassed both civilian and military jurisdictions. This dual role was essential for maintaining stability and Byzantine influence in the troubled Italian regions. The exarchate was one of two primary divisions of this nature, the other being the Exarchate of Africa.

Notable exarchs included Decius, who was possibly the first exarch, and Eutychius, the last exarch who served until 751. The exarchs played significant roles not only in military matters but also in religious and political affairs. For instance, Pope Gregory III had to seek approval from the exarch of Ravenna for certain decisions.

Interaction with the Papacy and the Lombards

The interaction between the exarchs, the papacy, and the Lombards was complex. The exarchs often found themselves in negotiations with the Lombard kings, such as Agilulf, to maintain peace and exert Byzantine influence. The exarchate was crucial in supporting the pope and the Duchy of Rome, which was a Byzantine territory until the rise of the Republic of Venice.

The Lombard threat eventually led to the exarchs paying tributes, which marked a decline in Byzantine power and the weakening of their influence over Italy.

Decline and Fall

The decline of the Exarchate of Ravenna was marked by increasing pressures from the Lombards and internal revolts, such as the rebellion against iconoclasm that occurred during Eutychius's tenure. The exarchate eventually fell to the Lombards in 751, which marked the end of Byzantine authority in northern Italy.

Legacy

The Exarchate of Ravenna played a crucial role in the history of medieval Italy, serving as a bridge between the ancient Roman world and the emerging medieval states. Its fall marked a significant transition in the political landscape of Italy, paving the way for the rise of new powers, such as the Frankish Kingdom and the Holy Roman Empire.