Malta through the ages (5) : medieval Malta (part two)

Abstract

Frederick II turned out to be the last Hohenstaufen Emperor, with European events leading to a speedy exit by the Normans. His son Conrad died shortly, and in 1258, Manfred ascended the throne amidst the harsh dispute between the Guelphs and the Gibellines in Italy, which helped drive a deeper wedge between the Hohenstaufens and the Papacy. Pope Urban IV had already been shocked to hear of the proposed marriage of Manfred's daughter, Constance, to the son of James of Aragon - a close ally of the Pope. Being helpless, the Pope later sought the help of Charles of Anjou, whom he crowned King of Sicily in February 1226. The conflict between the latter and the Hohenstaufens reached a climax at Tagliacozzo in 1268, where Charles emerged victorious. Once again, Malta had ~ew masters - the Anjevins.