Maria of Amnia

Maria of Amnia (c. 770 – after 823) was the first Empress consort of Constantine VI of the Byzantine Empire. She was a granddaughter of Saint Philaretos, a magnate from the Armeniakon Theme known for his charitable activities, a relation mentioned in his hagiography. The name of her father is unknown and her mother has been identified as Hypatia by Christian Settipani.

Maria was born in Amnia, Paphlagonia.

In 788, Maria was one of thirteen candidates in the earliest recorded bride-show. The bride-show had been ordered by Regent Empress Irene in search of a suitable bride for her son Constantine VI. Constantine was previously betrothed to Rotrude, daughter of Charlemagne and Hildegard, but Irene had called off the engagement.

Maria was the granddaughter of Saint Philaretos.

Maria was chosen primarily by Irene. Constantine and Staurakios, a eunuch who served as the logothetes tou dromou, were also reportedly involved in the presentation of the candidates. However whether they influenced the choice is unstated.

The marriage took place in November, 788. The marriage was recorded in the chronicle of Theophanes the Confessor. The marriage lasted for about six years and resulted in two daughters. Theophanes records that Constantine had turned against his first wife at some point. Theophanes attributed the deterioration of the marriage to the machinations of Irene. The lack of a male heir following six years of marriage could also be one of the reasons.

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