Zoe

Zoe was born as a princess of the Byzantine Empire, the daughter of Emperor Constantine VIII.

At the age of 14, Zoe is married to Romanos III Argyros, a nobleman chosen by her father to secure the imperial succession.

Following the death of her father, Emperor Constantine VIII, Zoe becomes Empress Regnant alongside her husband, Romanos III Argyros.

Zoe conspires with her lover, Michael, to overthrow Romanos III. The emperor is found dead, and Michael IV is crowned emperor.

Michael IV dies, and Zoe’s nephew, Michael V, becomes emperor. He quickly alienates Zoe, leading to her temporary imprisonment.

Zoe is restored to power with the help of the people of Constantinople, who riot in her favor, forcing Michael V to abdicate.

Zoe marries Constantine IX Monomachos, a former noble and her third husband, who becomes her co-emperor.

Zoe commissions the construction of the Nea Moni Monastery on the island of Chios, a significant religious and architectural achievement.

After the death of Constantine IX, Zoe and her sister Theodora jointly rule the Byzantine Empire for a brief period.

Zoe retires from active rule, and Theodora becomes the sole empress, marking the end of Zoe’s political influence.

Zoe continues to support religious institutions and the arts, funding the construction and renovation of several churches and monasteries.

Zoe’s health begins to decline, and she withdraws from public life, spending more time in her palace and religious activities.

Zoe dies in Constantinople, leaving behind a legacy of political influence and significant architectural and religious contributions.