Anjou

The House of Anjou, which ruled Sicily in the Middle Ages, was a French royal family that significantly impacted the island's politics and architecture.

The House of Anjou, a branch of the Capetian dynasty in France, came to power in Sicily in the early 13th century. In 1266, Charles of Anjou, brother of King Louis IX of France, acquired the Kingdom of Sicily after defeating Manfred of Sicily, who was supported by Emperor Frederick II.

During the Angevin rule, Sicily was integrated into a French sphere of influence. This period is characterized by administrative and legal reforms aimed at centralizing power. The Angevin administration also promoted the construction of many religious and civic buildings, often featuring Gothic architecture influenced by contemporary French styles.

However, Angevin rule was short-lived. In 1282, the Sicilian Vespers, a popular revolt against excessive taxation and abuses of power, led to the end of Angevin control. The uprising resulted in the rise of the Aragonese dynasty, which replaced the Angevins and significantly altered the island’s politics.

Despite their brief rule, the Angevins left a lasting impact on Sicily through their contributions to architecture and political organization.