Maria of Alania was Byzantine empress by marriages to emperors Michael VII Doukas and Nikephoros III Botaneiates.
Maria of Alania
A medieval Georgian icon in gold and precious stones commemorating the marriage of then Princess Martha to Michael VII.
A medieval miniature commemorating the marriage of Maria and Nikephoros III Botaneiates.
Lead seal of Empress Maria, 1070s
Michael VII Doukas or Ducas, nicknamed Parapinakes, was the senior Byzantine emperor from 1071 to 1078. He was known as incompetent as an emperor and reliant on court officials, especially of his finance minister Nikephoritzes, who increased taxation and luxury spending while not properly financing their army. Under his reign, Bari was lost and his empire faced open revolt in the Balkans. Along with the advancing Seljuk Turks in the eastern front, Michael also had to contend with his mercenaries openly turning against the empire. Michael stepped down as emperor in 1078 and later retired to a monastery.
Miliaresion of Michael VII Doukas
Miniature of Michael VII alongside Constantine X and Eudokia, c. 1060
Michael VII and Maria of Alania on the Khakhuli triptych, c. 1072.
Michael VII Doukas on the back of the Holy Crown of Hungary, c. 1074.
