Michael V Kalaphates
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Michael V Kalaphates was Byzantine emperor for four months in 1041–1042. He was the nephew and successor of Michael IV and the adoptive son of Michael IV's wife Empress Zoe. He was popularly called "t
Michael V, 11th century depiction from the Madrid Skylitzes
Michael V banishes Zoe to a monastery.
Theodora Porphyrogenita
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Theodora Porphyrogenita was Byzantine Empress from 21 April 1042 to her death on 31 August 1056, and sole ruler from 11 January 1055. She was the last sovereign of the Macedonian dynasty, which had ru
Michael V Kalaphates
…people from both sides had died. Once inside the palace, the mob pillaged valuables and tore up the tax rolls. Also on 21 April 1042 Zoe's sister Theodora, who had been removed from her nunnery against her will earlier in the uprising, was declared Empress. In response, Michael fled to seek safety in the…
Tonsure of Theodora, miniature from the Madrid Skylitzes, 12th century.
Miniature with the portraits of Zoë (left), Constantine IX (center) and Theodora (right).
Zoë (left), Constantine IX (centre), and Theodora (right) depicted on the Monomachus Crown
Theodora depicted on the Monomachus Crown