The ‘Despotate’ of the Tocco as ‘State’ (14th-15th Century)

In this article, the House of the Italian Tocco is discussed in context with their territories in Greece at the end of the 14th century and during the 15th Century. The authors examine how the Tocco have built up, starting from rather humble beginnings as functionaries, an important territory in Epiros, which they transformed into a medieval 'state', when they were honoured with the dignity of 'Despotes'. The characteristics of their 'state' are analyzed and discussed.