Episode 121 - The many challenges facing King Frederick III of Sicily

In this episode of "Reconquista," the podcast delves into the challenges faced by King Frederick III of Sicily. Despite opposition from powerful entities like Rome, France, and even his own brother, King James of Aragon, Fredericko strives to maintain his rule over Sicily. The narrative explores the political landscape of the time, highlighting King Charles II of Naples' alliances and the pressures exerted by Pope Boniface VIII. The episode recounts the military conflicts, truces, and treaties that shaped Fredericko's reign, including the Treaty of Catebellotta, which stipulated that Fredericko would only be king for his lifetime. It also covers how Frederick dealt with a large group of Aragonese and Catalan mercenaries by sending them to the Byzantine Empire, which had long-standing consequences. Ultimately, Fredericko's reign brought stability to Sicily, but not without significant upheaval in other parts of the Mediterranean.