The remains of Michael III were ceremonially reburied in the imperial mausoleum at the Church of the Holy Apostles shortly after Leo VI ascended to the Byzantine throne in 886. This action fueled persistent rumors regarding his true parentage, reflecting the complex political landscape that defined his twenty-six-year tenure as emperor during the Macedonian dynasty.
Political Consolidation and Bureaucracy
Upon succeeding Basil I, Leo VI prioritized strengthening his administrative control in Constantinople. He relied heavily on bureaucrats, most notably Stylianos Zaoutzes and the Arab defector Samonas, whom he elevated to the rank of patrikios. His efforts to centralize authority and manage powerful aristocratic families, such as the Doukai and Phokadai, met with resistance, culminating in the 906 revolt led by Andronikos Doukas. His governance also marked the final discontinuation of traditional Roman offices like that of the consul.
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Leo VI continued the legislative work initiated by his predecessor by completing the Basilika, a comprehensive update and translation of the law code originally issued by Justinian I. His involvement in ecclesiastical matters was marked by frequent interference in the patriarchate. He appointed his own brother Stephen to the position in 886 and later cycled through several other patriarchs, including Antony II Kauleas, Nicholas Mystikos, and Euthymios, often in response to internal political pressures and disagreements over his personal life.
Military Challenges and Border Strategy
The empire faced significant security pressures during Leo's reign. Conflicts with Simeon I of Bulgaria resulted in the 896 defeat at the Battle of Boulgarophygon and subsequent tribute payments. In the east, he achieved successes against the Emirate of Tarsus and initiated territorial expansion by creating new frontier provinces like Lykandos and Leontokome. However, he struggled elsewhere, losing Taormina in Sicily in 902 and failing to secure Crete in 911. Additionally, he negotiated trade treaties with the Rus following attacks on the capital by Prince Oleg.
Personal Life and Succession
Leo's attempts to secure a legitimate successor led to a series of four marriages, which caused significant societal and religious friction. Following the deaths of his first three wives—Theophano, Zoe Zaoutzaina, and Eudokia Baïana—he entered a fourth union with his mistress, Zoe Karbonopsina. This marriage, occurring after the birth of his son in 905, required him to replace Patriarch Nicholas Mystikos with Euthymios to gain recognition. He eventually passed away in 912, leaving behind a complex legacy as both an emperor and a composer.
Fast facts
- Born: 19 September 866, Constantinople
- Died: 11 May 912, Constantinople
- Reign: 886–912
- Dynasty: Macedonian
- Occupations: Composer, Emperor
- Burial site: Church of the Holy Apostles
Questions readers ask
Why was Leo VI called the Wise?
He was considered a very well-read ruler, which led to his epithet.
What happened to the remains of Michael III?
Leo VI had them reburied with great ceremony in the imperial mausoleum at the Church of the Holy Apostles shortly after becoming emperor.
