A Cross in a Green Sea - A Balearic AAR

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A Cross in a Green Sea
A History-Book AAR

An Introduction​

- Map as of January 867AD
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To the east of the Emirate of Cordoba and south of mainland Aquitaine, in the warm waters of the western Mediterranean lies an archipelago of islands. The two largest of which are Majorque and Minorque.

These two, along with a number of smaller islands, are known as the Islas Baleres. Though this is their current name, the islands have been called many things, by many peoples throughout their lengthy history.

Majorque and Minorque together are frequently referred to as the Gymnesian Islands which derives from the Greek word for naked,‘gymnos’. The ancient Greeks referred to the islands as ‘The Gymnesiae’ for the inhabitants delight in spending the summer months entirely naked owing to the high temperatures.

Ancient Greek tradition holds that the islands were settled by colonists from Rhodes following the Trojan war. Greek colonies certainly stretched as far as Sardinia so it is not inconceivable that they settled the Islas Baleares. The presence of megaliths known as talaiots, dating from around 1000BC, on Majorque and Minorque are similar to those found on Sardinia, Corsica and Pantelleria potentially hint at a shared cultural history, and show the Talayotic people to be the first occupants of the islands.

- A selection of talaiots found on Majorque
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The original inhabitants of the Baleares have a reputation of being odd characters they are described as living in hollow rocks and artificial caves as well as being particular lovers of women, they would think nothing of trading a number of men for one good women.

One thing they were well known, and respected for, was their formidable abilities with a sling. They were frequently employed as mercenaries, taking to battle lightly armed and usually carrying three slings. With the largest of these slings it was said that they could launch a projectile with the force of a catapult and they rarely missed their mark.

It is said that there were no precious metals found in the earth of Majorque, nor were any imported. Due to this the Balearic mercenaries took payment only in women and wine.

The name given to the inhabitants of the Gymnesian islands was from the Greek word ‘balearis’ meaning ‘to launch’ a tribute to their skill with a sling.

- A Balearic Slinger
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In the 9th Century BC Phoenician colonies sprang up in the Western Mediterranean. Due to their perfect position for trading across the Mediterranean the Phoenicians established trading colonies on the islands.
Following the defeat of Carthage in the Second Punic War when they lost all of their overseas territories, the islands were left more or less to themselves in independent rule. That was until the covetous eye of Rome fell upon them.

Rome, whether correctly or incorrectly, believed the people of the Gymnesian islands to be engaging or assisting in piracy conquered the islands in 123BC. The pirates were destroyed and the islands taken by Consul Quintus Caecilius Metellus, who for his victory was awarded a triumph and the cognomen Balearicus.

Quintus then established on Majorque the colonies Palma and Pollentia settling them with 3000 Roman Iberians. While the newly settled Romans thrived through trade and agriculture, the native peoples found themselves conscripted into the Roman Army and sent to fight on the fringes of the Republic. The Islas Baleares remained a territory of Rome as the Republic became an Empire.

- Ruins at Pollentia
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The prosperity of the islands started to fall from the Third Century AD as Roman might began to wane, and in around 250AD Pollentia was razed to the ground.

In 427AD the West Roman Empire was ousted and the islands were occupied by Gunderic, King of the Vandals and Visigoths. Pollentia was again burnt to the ground with the survivors heading inland and establishing Pollença.

Gunderic’s son Geiseric ‘the Lame’ then used Majorque as a base from which he launched raids to plunder the rich coastal cities of the Mediterranean.

There is a lack of history up until 534AD when the islands were occupied by Apollinaris and became part of the Byzantine Empire. Under the Byzantine rule Christianity flourished with old places of worship restored to their previous glories as well as the building of newer basilica.

The distance between the islands and Constantinople meant protection of was difficult and there was sporadic raiding particularly by their Moorish neighbours.

In 707AD, following heavy looting by Abdullah son of Musa, the islands signed treaties with the Umayyad Caliphate and effectively became autonomous subjects to the African Moors. Despite the differences in religion the Balearic people were allowed to follow their own religions, though subject to higher taxes, and life carried on in relative harmony.

Incursions and invasions continued to harass the islands, so much so that they petitioned Charlemagne, Charles the Great who in 799 arrived to help defend them, adding the islands to his realm. Charlemagne being no stranger to the moors having come into contact with them following the conquest of Italy and his Hispanic battles.

- Harun al'Rashid receiving a delegation of Charlemagne in Baghdad (by Julius Knöckert 1864)
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Following the death of Charlemagne, his son Louis ‘the Pious’ was forced to withdraw his fleet from Majorque and so Moorish raids resumed.

In Majorque 848 was raided by 300 ships led by Abd al-Rahman and forced then to pay for its future peace.
An uneasy truce settled over the islands until in 860AD an altogether different type of raider fell upon the Islands. Vikings.

The islands were heavily looted by Bjorn Ironside on his, unsuccessful, way to loot Rome.

Now in 867AD the Isles Baleares’ fate is no more certain nor its lands any more secure.

Falling within the realm of the recently crowned King of Aquitaine, Roi Louis II ‘the Stammerer’ and held by Comte Johan of Majorque the story of the Isle of Majorque will start anew.

 

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1st January 867AD​

In 864 King Charles II ‘the Bald’, in reward for his loyalty during the civil war, appointed Bernard of Gothia lands in Auvergne and Autun. These lands only briefly did belong to Comte Bernard as in 865 they were taken for redistribution, with the strategically important counties Barcelona instead being awarded to him.

- King Charles II 'the Bald' (L) & Compte Bernard​

Comte Bernard ‘directly’ ruled the Isles Baleares for two years, marred by internecine raiding of the Moorish neighbours, though most of his time was spent on the mainland administering his more affluent lands. So it was that in January 867 Comte Bernard decided to trade the inconvenience of raiders for the inconvenience of feudal vassals and raised Johan of Majorque as ruler of the larger island (plus Ibice, the third island) and Petro of Minorque as ruler of the lesser. In doing so two new houses were established, both tied explicitly to the Baleraric Islands.

- Previous rulers of Majorque (L) and Comte Johan (R) who ruled from 867​

At this time the lands of Comte Barnard fell within the Kingdom of Aquitaine, ruled by King Louis II ‘the Stammerer’. Aquitaine was ruled under the illusion of independence but in fact was still under the regency of King Charles II. Despite his lack of powers King Louis agreed to Comte Bernard’s suggestion that two new houses be ennobled and in late 866 the seeds that would become the lines of Majorque and Minorque were cultivated in the county of Ventadour.

- King Louis II 'The Stammerer' of Aquitaine (Though he was King in title, he was not in power. The true ruler of Aquitaine was still his father Charles II 'the Bald')​

So it was that at the start of the year 867 Comte Johan, his wife Comtesse Agnes and their son Uerenguel took up residence at the Domum Palma, a walled enclosure outside of Palma. The economy of Majorque had been hit hard in recent years following its sacking at the hands of Bjorn Ironside and more recently the multiple, small, bleeding raids by the Muslims but Palma was still the most prosperous of the towns. As it had in previous years it was hoped that gold, akin to yellow blood, running from the Mediterranean and through the port of Palma, would revitalise the island as a whole.

- Major holdings on Majorque (as of 867AD)​

There was not a great population on the the Islas Baleares and it was remarked by Aquitainian society of the time that the new Comtes Johan and Petro was the best of the worst but no sleep was lost lamenting their ascension given the backwater nature of the lands they now ruled. The same lack of choice applied when Comte Johan chose his inaugural council, however records from the time suggest the men appointed, for the most part, were agreeably suited to their roles.

- The first council of Majorque, as appointed by Comte Johan​

The most notable member in the first council of Comte Johan was Bishop Folc of Palma who as well as being responsible for the Diocese of Majorque was appointed as court chaplain. He was described as a man prone to anger and beset with doubts of his own faith, in spite of this he was a strong, efficient and loud proponent of Christianity across the islands.

No place was there, however, for Renard Mayor of Sainte Ponse. Despite his knowledge of warfare and strategic mind, Comte Johan had appointed the highborn Radulfo de Barcelona as his Marshall. Radulfo’s father had been Conde Suniefredo of Barcelone, a title now held by Comte Bernard, though Radulfo still held a strong claim which could be pressed in war. Some consolation was found by Mayor Renard in being named High Almoner as well as a commander of the Majorquan forces.

- Beneath Compte Johan the two most powerful men of Majorque would be Bishop Folc of Parma (L) & Mayor Renard of Sainte Ponsc (R)​

At the beginning of his rule the new Comte decided the most pressing task was that of rebuilding the infrastructure of the island. Should Majorque find itself a victim of Moorish aggression, or drawn into a higher level war, he was able to call on around 1,000 men from his own holdings. The towns of Majorque could supply a further 150/200 if absolutely necessary and so would unlikely be the deciding factor between victory and defeat. As such the first law passed was that of Highly Tax Oriented Burgher Focus, the tax paid by the people of Majorque would increase but this would guarantee that freemen would not be called to arms. Further to this Comte Johan issued a decree that all taxes would be channeled back into efforts to increase the prosperity of the island to the benefit of all its peoples.

- Following his investiture, Comte Johan's first endeavour was to improve the lot of the historically harassed people of Majorque​

Though with the approval of the Majorquan council a small amount of gold was taken to be used to hire a sword instructor from the mainland. Compte Johan knew that waters never remained calm and so wished to be prepared for the undoubted violence that would be visited upon the islands.

Finally he set his tasks for the the council. Chancellor Folc was entrusted with traveling the island to inform the people of their new ruler. Connetable Radulfo was set to train the forces of Majorque such that they were prepared and confident to defend their lands from any incursion. Senechal Ponc would work closely with Comte Johan in raising funds and improving the prosperity of Majorque. Spymaster Alvar remained in Palma providing information to the council bringing to light any schemes or secrets. Finally Bishop Folc continued his work in spreading the word of God across the island.

No doubt after a hectic and draining first day of rule, Comte Johan returned weary to his new home and the tenderness of his wife. Did he find any symbolism when looking upon his newborn child did he see in that sleeping babe endless potential, or a frightening unknown?

Whatever his thoughts may have been, his ears would not have been deaf to the orchestral crashing of the sea, nor the tense rumblings from the west.

 

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Comte Johan of Majorque 02/01/867 - 08/07/869
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So it was that on the 2nd of January 867, Comte Johan officially began his role as Crown invested ruler of Majorque. His initial days though likely busy, were taken up with tours of the island and audiences with its prominent citizens. His position prior to elevation is unknown but we can perhaps assume a certain lack of knowledge in regards the inner workings of the Mallorcan government.

News of war reached Majorque in January 867 though not from Amir al-Mu’minin Muhammad of the al-Umawi Imara (Muhammad I of Cordoba) as had been feared. Instead the war was to the north with King Lothaire V of Lotharingen declaring a Lotharingi-Aquitainian Holy Roman Unification War against King Louis II ‘the Stammerer’ of Aquitaine.

- Roi Lothaire V of Lotharingen (Lothair II)​

Given that King Lothaire’s father Lothaire IV (Lothair I) had previously ruled over vast swathes of Europe (including Lotharingen and Lombardy) as the Holy Roman Emperor it is wholly natural that reunification of the Empire would be his goal. The only complication was that all the rulers of Europe from Aquitaine to Baiern, and the lands between, were born of the same line. Europe was a web of claims and Imperial desire, within days of the first war, King Charles II ‘the Bald’ declared on Lothaire V seeking himself the crown.

The disputes of the Carolingian Dynasty however were of no real import to the small Balearic Islands. Their only worry was that with their King distracted by a familial war, Cordoba may be encouraged to seize the islands chancing that troops may not be released to defend the islands.
In January sword-master Ffernfael ap Meurig arrived on the island to take up his role as an instructor to Comte Johan. Ffernfael was of noble birth and heir to the welsh county of Gwent, he had left the British Isles and traveled mainland Europe offering his services at various times as a mercenary, instructor and commander. His brother Brochfael, current Tywysog of Gwent, having sired no sons by the age of 31 (though being father of two girls) had banished Ffernfael from his lands for fear his heir take his inheritance into his own hands.

- ffernfael ap Meurig (Heir to the county of Gwent and sword instructor to the Comte)​

The Lotharingi-Aquitainian war continued on the mainland. An Aquitainian army of some 3500 men clashed with 4500 Lotharingi near Viennois on the Aquitain-Lotharingen border. The battle was fought in May 867 in the midst of unseasonal weather, heavy snow and temperatures well below freezing. The Aquitainian army was routed with losses of almost 2000, while the Lotharingi army, whose losses were less than one thousand, remained to siege the border counties.

- Prince-Bishop Bernoin (Aquitainian Commander) & Comte Eberhard (Lotharingi Commander)​

Peace reigned still on Majorque with neither threat nor raid from Iberia or Africa. Gold slowly grew in the Mallorcan treasury and while ground level infrastructure improved there were no significant building works undertaken.

In acknowledgment of his rule Comte Johan was named Grand Ecuyer (Master of the Horse) by his Liege Comte Bernard. While a minor title it did confer some measure of prestige to both the Compte and Majorque itself.

The Aquitainian defeat raised concerns in the Balearics as with almost half of the Kingdom’s standing army defeated the Kingdom’s ability to defend itself and its borders may be questioned. In a bid to foster good relations with their Muslim neighbours Comte Johan sent Chancelier Folc on a diplomatic mission to the court of Amir al-Mu’minin Muhammad in Qurtuba.

- Amir al-Mu’minin Muhammad (Muhammad I of the Caliphate of Cordoba​

The first recorded incident in which Comte Johan was required to exert his authority involved the crime of poaching. The island of Majorque had few species of indigenous wildlife, owing in part to the vegetation. As a consequence strict laws were in place limiting hunting of the rabbits and civet cats found across the island. A number of the farmers from the flat central plains of the island are recorded as petitioning the Comte following discovery of high number of butchered carcasses.

- Farmers petition the Comte with concerns of poaching​

The task of discovering the culprits was delegated to Spymaster Alvar and Marshall Radulfo who following a number of weeks of investigation successfully identified the men responsible. Fragments of the court records which remain suggest that the poachers would sell the meat to Menorcan merchants though this cannot be verified.

The sentence passed, however, is known and that was death by hanging. Comte Johan, preceding the sentence being actions is quoted as addressing the observers and stating the following;

- ‘The theft of a rabbit may seem to be a small thing, but is it a small thing to steal food from the mouth of your neigbour? The bible would say nay, and so therefore do the laws of Majorque. The punishment cannot be anything other than death.’​

- The poachers are found and sentenced to hang by Comte Johan, to the approval of Spymaster Alvar​

As the moved transitioned into 868 the Lotharingi-Aquitainian war rattled on lacking any decisive engagements. The two armies avoided each other entirely and continued to siege the border counties which did little to give either side the advantage.

February 868 yielded some changes to the Mallorcan Council. Though a just and efficient administrator Comte Johan seemingly lacked energy in his actions, this coupled with the year of peace being enjoyed on Majorque meant he had made no developments in his personal combat training.

Having found his time empty Ffernfael considered leaving the island and returning to the mainland, given the man’s skill and noble descent this was was undoubtedly a cause for concern on Majorque. A reshuffling ensued and Radulfo de Barcelona was removed as Connetable (though installed as a commander) and Ffernfael named the new Marshall.

Peace and, relative, prosperity thrived on Malorque and so with gold to spare Comte Johan sought to organise a summer fair in the capital of Palma. Across May and June much rejoicing ensued, at its heart was a celebration of nature and fertility. The Comte’s wife Agnes took an active part in the fair;

‘To thin branches of pine had the Comptesse tied, with green ribbon, sprigs of Rosemary which were given, freely, along with a smile to any of the desiring womenfolk’​

A full chronicle of the event was not recorded but it is believed that an Adoptionist preacher was expelled from Palma for stoking religious fears.

- Though enjoyed by all, the Summer Fair was not without it’s problems​

In June 868 concerns were raised at the lack of reports being sent from Chancelier Folc in Cordoba. From what we are able to discern Folc was enjoying the opulent decadence of the Cordoban Caliphate a little too much. Comte Johan sought a suitable replacement and following discussions with Connetable Ffernfael sent word to the Briton’s acquaintance Aethelgeard that he had a position in Majorque if he would sail to Cordoba and relieve Folc;

‘Goodman Aethelgeard, know that your faithful friend Ffernfeal has spoken highly of your skill with word and language. As Comte of Majorque I offer you employment as my Chancelier, should you accept this request sail with speed to Qurtuba in Cordoba and relive your predecessor. Ensconce yourself in the court of the Emir and speak to him of our desire for peace and trade, ever are we open to friendship. For all the praise Ffernfeal speaks of your sin, we are a land of God and so I pray you do not abse yourself of the flesh, as I am informed is your proclivity.’​

Comte Johan’s missive was successful as Aethelgeard prompty accepted the offer.

- Aethelgeard, the new Chancelier of Majorque​

At this point it is worth noting that the Lotharingi-Aquitainian war moved in favour of the defender. Harrassed by King Charles ‘the Bald’ on their norther borders the entire Lotharingi army moved north to support the forces there. This left the Aquitainian forces unharrassed and able to continue their border sieges.

With life on Majorque good, Comte Johan turned his attention to Comte Petro. Of the opinion that that unity between the islands could only be good he sailed to Minorque and in doing so met his Minorcan contemporary for the first time in July 868.

We are led to believe that he was less that impressed with the man he encountered;

‘Like a Pagan King does Petro live, wine and food in abundance in his home. Not a smile to be seen on the pinches faces of his ‘subjects’.’ ​

- Comte Petro of Minorque​

In August 868 Comptesse Agnes announced she was with child for the second time, news that was joyously met by the Comte and the people of Majorque. During the pregancy the devotion of Comte Johan was plain to see with his doing everything in his power to make his wife comfortable and happy.

- Comtesse Agnes wanted for nothing during her pregnancy, but would it lead to a happy and healthy child?​

Having heard nothing from Comte Petro since his visit to Minorque the previous July, In February 869 Comte Johan invited Petro to Majorque hoping to build a relationship and establish some kind of intra-island council.
Comte Petro arrived on 10th February 869, he walked onto Majorque like a peacock. He is described as ‘strutting like a prince’ and painted as an extremely demanding guest, making significant dents in the larder of Comte Johan’s kitchen.
Again the outcome was disastrous, so much so that Comte Johan felt moved to write the following to their Liege, Comte Bernard;
‘My Lord Bernard, may God be with you now and always. My Lord I entreat you to intervene and bring to task your vassal Comte Petro. A most despicable ruler I have not yet met. Minorque, with most humble deference, should be as happy and prosperous as mine own Majorque but for the Comte and his gluttonous desire. Again I beseech you to speak direct with the Comte and steer him towards God and noble rule. Ever am I your humble servant my Lord. May God, the greatest, be with you.’

- Comte Petro of Minorque did not have many admirers on Majorque​

Following the visit Comte Johan threw himself into his work and in March 869 organised a full census of his lands and instituted a full accounting of the treasury.

- One of the key factors for the continuing prosperity of Majorque were the administrative skills of its Comte​

While Aquitaine continually feared an Islamic influence on the Balearic Islands it was a Christian Heresy which had taken root in the Mallorcan society. Adoptionism was being embraced by the lower classes, though did not seem to have claimed any of the citizens of note. The Comte acted quickly and with the aid of Court Chaplain Folc increased services begun in the hope of returning the coverts to the flock.

- Adoptionism rears its head in Majorque​

On 13 June 869 the Comte & Comtesse welcomed their daughter Sybilia, a healthy and by all accounts robust child.

- Sybilia de Majorque​

Following a summons from Comte Bernard, Comte Johan arrived in Barcelone for an audience with his Liege.

The main reason for the summons was that Comte Bernard had made the decision to offer that Sybilia de Majorque be betrothed to his son, and heir, Guillaume Gellones. This was an opportunity not to be missed by Comte Johan, the prestige and security which would be bestowed upon his house would be tremendous. Though his house was still young there would not be many that could argue with the decision, the star of Majorque was certainly rising. Its treasury continued to grow and good relationships had been fostered with the Caliphate of Cordoba, these successes could be firmly ascribed to Comte Johan.

- A betrothal was agreed between the Houses of Gellones & Majorque​

A fragment of a letter sent from Comte Bernard to Comte Johan following their meeting suggests that there was additional point of discussion;

‘… may be the lesser in size but should not be the lesser in honour. In respect of the bonds between our houses I ask that you deal with Petro as you see fit…’​

 

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Comte Johan of Majorque 09/07/869 - 28/11/869​

Compte Johan returned to Majorque following his audience with Comte Bernard unsure of his future action. While not explicit, Comte Bernard had given approval for Johan to claim Minorque should he desire, though to declare war on fellow Christians would not be a decision one could take lightly.

Aquitaine found itself again under attack in July 869, this time from Duke Aznat II ‘the Cruel’ of Aragoi who warred to push his claim on the Aquitainian county of Comminges. The Duke war itself may have had Muslim backers for the Duke was a vassal of Errege Gartzea of Nafarroa who was himself a tributary of Amir al-Mu’minin Muhammad of the al-’Umawi Imara.

- Duke Aznar, Errege Gartzea & Amir al-Mu’minin​

- Mainland Europe and the Iberian Peninsula. Arrows denote aggressors toward Aquitaine​

The thought of attacking Minorque must have weighed heavy on Comte Johan’s conscious for in August 869 Bishop Folc of Palma was sent to Rome as an envoy to Pope Leo V. The reason for this mission is likely to have been to obtain Papal approval before any military action.

- Bishop Folc of Palma & Pope Leo V​

The justification put to Pope Leo V is unknown but would have had to call into question his piety. Given the existing records depict Comte Petro as being a slovenly & gluttonous man it would have been fairly easy for Johan to paint himself as a more Godly ruler. It was at this time that Comte Petro began vocally lobbying, within the Court of Barcelone, for tax cuts at the expense of his people. Certainly this did little to endear himself to the church.

- Comte Petro starts a Glory Faction within the Court of Barcelone​

Bishop Folc returned to Majorque in early October of 869 with a letter bearing the Papal seal;

- Pope Leo V permits military action against Minorque, provided;​

‘Episcopus Servus Servorum Dei,
Faithful Johan Comte of Majorque, blessed servant of God, vassal of Roi Louis II.

It is right that men of this World be governed in solemn faith and humble duty. Comte Petro of Minorque labours not in a way Godly and therefore should be made to relinquish his duty.
As sayeth Romans 13:4 “For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.”

Though to mete death is to sin, where for goodly aims a token of physical sacrifice would provide sufficient relief from the temporal punishment of God’​

A sacrifice of 40 Gold was enough to absolve Comte Johan of Sin, and allow him to wage war with a clean conscious.

So it was that on 15th October 869 that a declaration of war made its short journey from Majorque to Minorque.

- The Mallorcan-Menorcan War was called in October 869​

An army of 1221 men was raised and organised in Palma as a small fleet of some 14 boats were prepared to transport the force to depose Comte Petro. The arrayed Mallorcan army was led by commanders Radulfo and Renard, both men being skilled in war and possessing strategic minds.

- Commanders Radulfo & Renard​

With all necessary logistics in place the men boarded and sailed for Minorque and landed, in early November 869, on the western coast of the island. The Mallorcan men pushed east and engaged in a number of small scale skirmishes against the Menorcans whose forces numbered around 750.

The entire action was extremely efficient with the army under strict orders from Comte Johan to;

‘Visit no force upon the people of Minorque nor interact with buildings or settlements to their detriment…’​

As the army neared the major Menorcan town of Mahon on the east coast they engaged a large force, unexpectedly, led by the incumbent Comte. The action was brief with the Menorcans surrendering almost straight away. As the men yielded their weapons so they yielded the trussed Comte;

‘A guardsman of the name Joseph brought before me what I took to be a bound hog. As it was thrown to the ground the squeals did little to make me think otherwise but evident was it that the hog was the prior Comte. Overripe flesh spilling from beneath a gilded breastplate, an a ceremonial that would have shattered upon first clash.’
- Journal of Mayor Renard of Sainte Ponse​

Thus on 28th November 869 the conquest of Minorque was won with minimal violence and the island now came under the purview of Comte Johan.

- Comte Petro is captured leading to a Mallorcan victory​

 

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Comte Johan of Majorque 29/11/869 - 31/12/870​

Following the deposing of Comte Petro, life in the Balearic Isles quickly settled back into its day-to-day normalcy. Minorque having been spared both bloodshed and siege was able to seamlessly transition from old rule to new. The small population of the island were optimistic of their future, encouraged by both their previous experiences of the new Comte but also the growing prosperity of their larger neighbour.

Petro de Minorica and his family were transported to Palma where they were treated as guests, though observed, until such a time that arrangements were made for their transport elsewhere. Records from the time suggest they remained on Majorque for around two weeks before they left for the court of Rodrigo of Castiella in Valladolid.

The main settlement of Minorque was that of Mahon, lying on the eastern coast of the island and believed to have been named after the Carthaginian general Mago Barca. The Mayor of Mahon was a man named Joan-Alfons who immediately petitioned his new liege for a place on the Balearic council.

- Mayor Joan-Alfons of Mahon who was appointed Chancellor of Majorque in January 870, shortly after the Menorcan conquest​

Having already identified the benefits that could be realised with a more unified relationship between the islands, Comte Johan agreed instantly. Mayor Joan-Alfons was by all accounts possessing of a silver tongue and so it is not surprising that he was made Chancellor. Comte Johan had no qualms in replacing Aethelgeard as while he was skilled, and had served Majorque well in his brief tenure, he was not of the Isles.

It was around this time that that Majorque looked out-wards and beyond its archipelago for the first time. Senechal Ponc in his ongoing task of enriching the Isles had identified a potential trading partner.

- Senechal Ponc suggested a potentially lucrative trading partner in December 869​

Thanks in part to the diplomatic work of previous Chancellor Aethelgeard relations with the nearby Muslim kingdoms were cordial and a number of contacts had been made.

One such contact was Wali Sa’id of Nakur, ruler of the independent Kingdom of Nakur which was situated the northern coast of Africa, south of the Iberian peninsular and overlooking the straits of Gibraltar. Though small, Nakur could claim to be wealthy being a terminus of the Trans-Saharan trade route. It was located in the north African region known as ‘the Rif’ a name derived from ‘Arrif’ meaning ‘the coast’ or ‘the edge of the land’ in the local Tamazight language.

The expedition seems to have been somewhat of a gamble by the usually cautious and economical Johan. A suitable vessel was needed to transport the Menorcan delegation along with their trade goods, the treasury was emptied and used to acquire an old cog, ‘et Larum’ which was refitted and renamed ‘Sibilia’ after Comte Johan’s daughter. The remainder of the treasury was used to acquire suitable gifts, and tribute for Wali Sa’id.

The delegation was a fairly small affair, Comte Johan, Senechal Ponc and a number of seamen and laborers for the heavy work. Chaplain Folc had requested he be included but was politely rejected by the Comte;

Venerable Folc, Chaplain of Majorque, pious Bishop of Palma may my letter find you hearty and well.
Your request most gracious and good has lately been the centre of my thoughts. The light of the Lord God and his son in Heaven Jesus Christ shine unsighted upon the lands to which we sail. That your voice would ring loudly in Nakur akin to the noon time ring of a great silver bell I do not doubt.
Alas our fare Isles still find themselves the home of the vile adoptionist heresy and I could not in good faith remove you from our people while this is a fact.
It is my belief that through our words and deeds while amongst the Muslims will we show the power and love of Lord God. Our prosperity, health and humility are given by the Divine and the people of Nakur will bear witness to the light in which all good Christians walk.​

- The trade mission to Nakur was a organised quickly and effectively​

And so it was that on the 14th of December 869 Comte Johan kissed his wife and children goodbye, appointed his spymaster Alvar as regent and sailed with his party to Nakur.

- Location of Nakur in relation to Majorque​

The route of the expedition is unknown as no records exist to confirm it, but it is believed there was a small stop at Ibice. The smaller island was oft overlooked and undoubtedly this was the case under the rule of Comte Johan whose focus would have been on the larger two islands. After this brief visit the Sibilia may have made straight for Nakur though likely it headed south and skirted the North African coast.

Regardless, on the 24th January 870 they reached their destination and docked at the port of al-Mazimma. The hold of the Menorcan cog was unloaded the contents quoted as being ‘a great many bolts of cloth all of the finest quality, one quarter of which had been dyed in the grain.’ The cloth itself would make a fine gift but to be ‘dyed in the grain’ is to be dyed with kermes and therefore a bright vibrant red which would be considered to be extremely luxurious.

- Wali Sa’id of Nakur was presented with the finest cloth​

Comte Johan and his entourage were accepted as guests and remained within the palace of al-Mazimma for a number of weeks and were well treated and tended throughout. Initially cold to his Christian visitors Wali Sa’id soon thawed somewhat in the stifling African heat. There is no mention of great theological discussions nor any intense cultural exchanges, they discussed the terror of the Vikings (Nakur having been raided in 859 and Majorque in 860) and the beautiful Islamic architecture of which Comte Johan lavishly gushes;

‘My host halted as we approached a great stone arch and gestured for me to lead us into the chamber. Onward I walked through the arches carved delicately with vines and leaves into a a room that halted me as if I had been struck by a bolt from Heaven. The walls were adorned entirely with mosaic, the pieces of which numbered more than the stars above. Flowers bursting all around me in dazzling blues and whites, the beauty around me refreshed my eyes as water a dry throat.’​

The expedition was a grand success for on the 7th February 870 a trade deal was signed conferring reduced tariffs of merchants operating between the Balearic Isles and Nakur.

- A trade agreement was signed in 870 between Muslim Nakur and Christian Majorque​

The Menorcans did not tarry and shortly after the agreement was confirmed loaded the Sibilia with reciprocated gifts and other trade-goods before setting sale for home, docking in Palma on the 1st March 870.

Spymaster Alvar’s regency had been uneventful with the only concerns being a re-occurrence of poaching, the perpetrators of which had been caught and held captive awaiting the return of the Comte. Clemency was again not an option and the men responsible were sentenced to death within hours of the Comte stepping ashore.

The febrile Lotharingi-Aquitainian war was still ongoing in the north and likely heading for a white peace. Roi Lothaire remained occupied in the north west with his war against Roi Charles II and lacked the inclination to reclaim the Aquitainian occupied border counties.

Similarly Duke Azant II was still occupied with the siege of Comminges and remained untested by Roi Louis II.
Though not directly impacted Comte Johan had concerns over the ongoing war with Lotharingen simply for the fact that it affected trade into and out of the north of the island. In spite of this in July 870 he drew on the healthy Menorcan coffers and signed a charter to have a new town built in the north east of Majorque over the ruins of razed Roman town of Pollenca. The town was to be called Alcudia which was at the time a contentious choice for the fact that it was an Arabic word meaning ’on the hill’. While the religious men of the island objected, Comte Johan refused to change his mind leading to concerns of the Comte having become Arabicized.

- A charter was signed for the construction of Alcudia​

September 870 proved to be a good month for the House de Maiorica firstly the Comte was offered the position of marshal by his liege Comte Bernard II.

- Comte Bernard II offers Comte Johan the position of Marshall​

The offer was was politely declined by Comte Johan on the basis that he was no warrior and had no desire to spend the bulk of his time away from the Islands and his family. While such a refusal could lead to the liege lord feeling slighted there was a strong between the Comte of Majorque and Barcelone not least due to the bonds of betrothal.

The greatest news however was late in the month when Comtesse Agnes announced she was pregnant with her third child.

- On the 22nd September 870 the Comte and Comtesse announced they were expecting their third child​

As the year 870 drew to a close a third war reared its head when Duke Ramnulf II of Poitou declared the Poitevin-Aquitainian De Jure War over Bordeaux on the 23rd of December. Duke Ramnulf II was a vassal of Roi Charles II and a Duke of Francia Occidentalis, should his claim be won through war it would be but a temporary loss for Roi Louis II of Aquitaine was heir to the Kingdom of Francia Occidentalis

- Duke Ramnulf presses his claim for lands held by Aquitaine​

Thanks to the ongoing trade with the North African Muslims the Christmas feast enjoyed by Comte Johan and his family was an exotic affair. Dishes spiced with cinnamon, ginger and saffron including food of Cyprus (Almond milk and ginger) and maumeny (mixed beef and chicken with almonds and spices).

And so the year was closed.

 

[PEnglish82]

Comte Johan of Majorque 01/01/871 - 07/05/873
​

As the new year begun Comte Bernard invited Comte Johan and his family to spend some time in Barcelone likely to increase the growing relationship between the two houses. It would provide opportunities for Comte Johan to renew his vows of fealty as well as allowing the first introduction of the betrothed Guillaume and Sybilia though given their age it is likely either would remember.

- Barcelone circa 900AD, the town enclosed by the ancient Roman walls and the monastery of Sant Pau del Camp to the west
Source: http://ajuntament.barcelona.cat/museuhistoria/cartahistorica/#map=14/242185/5070759/2010//0/0/0/0
- A lovely site where you can look at the development of Barcelona from 150aC to 2010​

The Comtes and their family are recorded as having attended mass at Sant Pau del Camp, a small monastery outside of Barcelone town. The monastery itself had been constructed on the site of a much older temple and despite being consecrated in the name of the Lord God still retained older architectural and material influences both Roman and Visigoth.

Comte Johan and his Liege would have discussed the ongoing wars between their King and the neighboring rulers. It is curious that despite Roi Louis II being engaged in three separate wars there are no records of any of his vassals adding their men to that of the King. The wars themselves were small affairs and likely could easily be ended had but a few of the Lords of Aquitaine interceded.

Given that the attention of Roi Lothaire V was tin the north a number of small armies could siege his border counties and grind out at least a white peace. Perhaps the fact that the war was against a whole Kingdom halted interaction?

The war with Aragoi could be ended with a single decisive encounter, as the now fully reinforced Aquitainian army had a significant numerical advantage over the aggressor. Fragments of correspondence from the hand of Roi Louis II suggests all men of Aquitaine had been instructed to have no involvement with the war for fear of drawing the ire of Aragoi’s Muslim overlords.

Then there was the recent war with Duc Ramnulf II of Poitou, a pointless war from an Aquitainian perspective. Any land lost would become part of Aquitaine of which Roi Louis II was heir, any lives lost in the conflict would be senseless on the basis the lands would be reclaimed following succession.

A point to note is that Comte Bernard may have also had less than altruistic reasons for inviting Comte Johan to his court. Having united the Balearic Islands and brought prosperity to Majorque, and now Minorque, the prestige of House de Maiorica continued to rise. Comte Johan was now considered one of the more powerful men within the Kingdom and this would have caused no small amount of concern for his liege. While the visit publicly appeared extremely amiable sterner words may well have been spoken in private.

- The most powerful men in Aquitaine at the beginning of 871​

In total Comte Johan remained in Barcelona for two weeks before sailing back to his lands.

Shortly after his return from Barcelone Comte Johan fell ill, it began with a mild headache and a general malaise which led to more serious symptoms. His dedication could not be questioned as his continued to deal with all matters of administration, receiving petitions and serving justice. As the days lengthened into weeks his eyes darkened, his skin paled and he took to sleeping during meetings. In April 871 while arbitrating between two disgruntled neighbours he collapsed and was carried home.

Concerned for their Lord and aware there were no men of significant learning nor medicine on the island, the common folk approached Senechal Ponc and presented him with a collection comprised of donations from across all of the islands humbly asking that it be used to entice a man of healing to return Comte Johan to health.

- Comte Johan fell ill prompting a mass collection across the islands for the purposes of hiring a physician​

Rule on the Isles continued under the watchful eye of the Menorcan council as for the time being Comte Johan remained secluded, confined to his bed chamber his wife tending to his body and Chaplain Folc tending to his soul.

In June of 871 there were two new arrivals to the Isles, First was Shlomo Valenciennes an Ananite, or a follower of Karaite Judaism. He arrived offering his services to the Comte and his family as a physician having previously been working as an assistant in the courts of Europe. He gave an honest appraisal of his experience and seemed a genuine and agreeable man and so was wholeheartedly welcomed to the court of Majorque.

- Shlomo Valenciennes arrives on Majorque 20 April 871 in answer to calls for a physician​

The second arrival was the third child of the Comte and Comtesse, a daughter was born on 23 April 871 and named Teresa. Much like her older sister Sybilia, Teresa was a stout and stocky child who would fight, victoriously, against her swaddling and cry with the depth and ferocity of a Viking raider.

- Teresa de Maiorica​

Following her birth she was taken by Shlomo to the chamber of her father where he lay, still frail and pained. The Comte fearful that the child be infected or harmed refused entry and so viewed her but briefly as she was held in his doorway. He would not hold his daughter for the first time until three months later when he was satisfied his health had returned.

The likely cause of the Comte’s illness was pneumonia which left him all but incapacitated between the months of April and July 871. Medical knowledge at the time being limited it seems that it was the strong de Maiorica constitution that pulled him through, the treatments he is believed to have received having little efficacy.

- Despite limited medical treatments Comte Johan successfully recovered from a bout of pneumonia ​

The mentality of Comte Johan seems to have changed slightly following his convalescence. Perhaps borne out of a desire to make more of a mark on the World, or to secure and protect his growing family Comte Johan made the decision to enter into the war against Lotharingen which had been rattling on since 867.

In September 871 an army of 1039 was raised from across the Islands and boarded a mismatched fleet of 14 boats and headed northeast to the southern counties of Lotharingen. The war itself seemed at an impasse though the advantage was with Roi Louis II, it was the hope of Comte Johan that by harassing the coastal counties a victory of some sort could be obtained.

On 4 October 871 the army reached the shores of Provence and descended on Aix Castle, the fleet once fully unloaded withdrew to nearby Nimes where it anchored and awaited word that the county had been taken. Morale amongst the besiegers was high, confident as they were being led by Radulfo and Mayor Renard.

Comte Johan had elected to remain on Majorque rather than accompany the army to the mainland. His people held him in such high regards there was no talk of cowardice and even were he not still slightly weakened by his earlier illness, the islanders would be happy with him remaining behind.

The town of Alcudia, on which construction had started in 870, was completed on 17 December 871. The Christian concerns over Alcudia’s Arabic links were again an issue following the official establishment ceremony. On Comte Johan’s orders a plaza had been constructed in the centre of the town though its central tile had not been laid. As part of the ceremony Comte Johan addressed the people speaking of God, the future, duty and family before unwrapping a glorious tile gifted to him by Wali Sa’id of Nakur. While the citizens of Alcuida gasped at the tiles beauty as it was set in place, the clergy gasped for far less approving reasons.

- A replica of the tile set at the centre of the plaza of Alcudia​

Bar the disapproving whisper of the clerics at court, the next few months passed uneventfully on Majorque.
The Poitevin-Aquitainian war for Bordeaux looked to be all but over when their similarly matched armies met in battle at Perigord on 1 April 872. 2219 Aquitainian men fought a 2440 strong Poitevin army and lost, losing 833 men and killing a mere 430. As the Aquitainians routed the Poitevins marched on the capital of Aquitain, Ventadour, where Roi Louis II was secluded.

As the forces of Roi Louis II were defeated the men of Majorque were victorious when on 22 April 872 the castle of Aix fell and the flag of Majorque was raised above it’s battlements.

- Aix falls to Majorque​

Fortune continued to shine on the House de Maiorica when in May 872 Comtesse Agnes announced her fourth pregnancy.

On the 13th of July the unthinkable happened and Roi Louis II castle of Comborn in Ventadour was taken by the Poitevin army. The Roi however managed to escape much to the annoyance of Duc Ramnulf II meaning that what initially looked to be complete victory would not be decided just yet.

On 12 July 872 the Bishopric of Frejus fell to the jubilant Menorcan army, this was followed in October with the fall of Toulon.

- Frejus falls to Majorque​

- Toulon falls to Majorque​

The future of house De Maiorica was sealed on 13 December 872 when a second son was born, Guifre. Comte Johan is recorded to have joked that Guifre should instead be named Uerenguel Minor with his older brother renamed Urenguel Major to signify their future inheritances, unsurprisingly Comtess Agnes declined though with much mirth.

- Guifre de Maiorica​

Majorque’s contribution to the war against Lotharingen ended on 31 January 873 when the Bishopric of Digne fell. The men had been light in their looting throughout the campaign and packed up what little spoils they had won and awaited the arrival of the fleet from Nimes. They then set a course for home and families they had not seen in almost two years.

- Digne falls to Majorque and the county of Provence is fully held​

Roi Louis II conceded defeat in the Poitevin war and signed terms in May 873, though he was himself still in hiding. Duc Ramnulf relinquished control of Ventadour and headed back to his Duchy of Poitou now holding two thirds of the Duchy of Aquitaine, discussion was rife as to whether he would press for Agen and seize the Duchy as a whole. Should Roi Louis II inherit his father’s Kingdom, Duc Ramnulf would be a powerful vassal indeed.

- The Kingdom of Aquitaine before losing Bordeaux (L) and after with Bordeaux outlined (R)​