Nicholas III of Saint Omer

Nicholas III of Saint Omer, who passed away on January 30, 1314, stands as a pivotal figure in the annals of Frankish Greece. During his lifetime, he was unequivocally recognized as one of the most powerful and influential feudal lords within this intricate political landscape, shaped by the aftermath of the Fourth Crusade.

Key Roles and Influence in Frankish Greece

Nicholas III’s prominence was derived from a combination of significant hereditary offices and extensive territorial holdings:

• Hereditary Marshal of the Principality of Achaea: This esteemed position was not merely honorary but a highly functional one, designating him as the chief military officer and one of the highest judicial authorities within the Principality. The Principality of Achaea itself was the most enduring and significant Crusader state established in the Peloponnese (also known as the Morea) following the fall of Constantinople in 1204, acting as a beacon of Western European feudalism in the region.
• Lord of One-Third of Akova: Akova was one of the twelve original great baronies of the Principality of Achaea, strategically located in the central Peloponnese. Nicholas III's significant stake in this barony underscored his substantial landownership and military might, granting him considerable local control and influence over a key region within Achaea.
• Lord of One-Half of Thebes: His dominion over half of the historically and economically vital city of Thebes, located in Boeotia, further cemented his status. This significant holding was inherited by the Saint Omer family, notably by Nicholas's father, Bela of Saint Omer, through his marriage to Bonne de la Roche, sister of the Duke of Athens. Thebes was a major urban center within the wider Frankish territories, particularly associated with the Duchy of Athens, and this possession provided the Saint Omers with considerable wealth and strategic importance, extending their influence beyond the immediate borders of Achaea.

Service as Bailli of the Principality of Achaea

Demonstrating the immense trust placed in his capabilities and loyalty, Nicholas III served on three separate occasions as the bailli of the Principality of Achaea. The bailli was a crucial administrative and governmental position, acting as the regent or representative of the absentee Prince, who often resided in Naples or elsewhere in Europe. This role endowed him with supreme executive authority during these periods, effectively making him the acting ruler of the Principality. His terms of service were:

• 1300–1302
• 1304–1307
• circa 1311–1314

His repeated appointments as bailli highlight his exceptional administrative acumen, military leadership, and political reliability in a period marked by shifting allegiances and external pressures on the Frankish states in Greece.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nicholas III of Saint Omer

Who was Nicholas III of Saint Omer?

Nicholas III of Saint Omer was a prominent feudal lord in Frankish Greece during the early 14th century, known for holding multiple key hereditary titles and significant landholdings. He served as Hereditary Marshal of the Principality of Achaea, Lord of a third of Akova, and Lord of half of Thebes.

What was the Principality of Achaea?

The Principality of Achaea was a significant Crusader state established in the Peloponnese (Morea) after the Fourth Crusade in 1204. It was one of the most enduring and important Frankish entities in Greece, characterized by a developed feudal system and strategic importance.

What was the role of a "Bailli" in Frankish Greece?

A "bailli" in Frankish Greece, particularly in the Principality of Achaea, was a high-ranking official who served as the regent or direct representative of the ruling Prince, especially when the Prince was absent. This position granted extensive executive, administrative, and often judicial powers, essentially making the bailli the acting governor of the Principality.

When did Nicholas III of Saint Omer die?

Nicholas III of Saint Omer died on January 30, 1314.