Genoa and Lucca Against Pisa

A significant historical conflict between Genoa, Lucca, and Pisa unfolded on May 17, 1165, marked by a pivotal sea battle in the Bay of Porto Venere. This event followed Pisa's annulment of Barisone of Arborea's investiture and granting Sardinia to Pisa just one month prior. The dispute escalated after a Genoese merchant ship was captured by Pisans, leading to diplomatic tensions. Ambassadors from both communes sought imperial intervention, with negotiations held on the island of Palmaria. However, the presence of a notorious corsair, Trapilicini, a former Pisan now serving Genoa, exacerbated hostilities. His provocative statements further inflamed the situation, highlighting the fragility of the truce and the deep-seated rivalries between the communes. This historical account sheds light on the complex power dynamics and maritime conflicts of the period.

(Ed.). (2010). GENOA AND LUCCA AGAINST PISA. A History of Pisa, 170–194. https://doi.org/10.1017/cbo9780511696862.016