The Byzantine Navy in the Era of the Komnenoi and the Crusades (1081–1180)

This monograph investigates the spectacular renewal of the Byzantine navy under the founder of the Komnenian dynasty, Alexios I (1081–1118). It traces the development of the navy, its command structure, its warships, and numerical strength during Alexios I’s reign and the reign of his immediate successors, John II (1118–1143) and Manuel I (1143–1180). The authors make extensive use of available written sources, engage with the archaeological context, and use advanced statistical analysis. The study underscores a critical transition: in 1081, Alexios inherited a navy in terminal decline from long-term neglect. The Komnenian reforms repositioned the fleet as a useful tool of Byzantine foreign policy during the era of the Crusades. Archaeological context confirms that maritime circulation in Byzantine waters changed significantly during this period.

Marek Meško earned his PhD in Byzantine history at the Comenius University in Bratislava. His scholarly interest is devoted to the military history of Byzantium, particularly in the eleventh and twelfth centuries.

Věra Klontza-Jaklová obtained her PhD in classical archaeology at Charles University in Prague. She is an expert in Cretan archaeology, the archaeology of the Byzantine period, and interdisciplinary studies.

Barbora Ruffíni graduated in classical archaeology at the Masaryk University in Brno. Her research focuses on detailed analysis and the visualization of trade in amphorae.