Giovanni_Pipino_da_Barletta
Giovanni Pipino da Barletta (Giovanni Pipino I or just Giovanni Pipino, Latin: Iohannes Pipinus) (death: Naples, 1316) was an Italian nobleman and dignitary of the Kingdom of Naples. He started the Pipino noble family, which, after just a few decades, disappeared with the death (or exile) of his grandson Giovanni Pipino di Altamura and his brothers.[1]
In his youth, he helped the Giudice Razionale Giozzolino della Marra in his job and he's often been mistakenly defined a notary or even an architect (because of his patronage in the construction of churches and other buildings); his first real job was Maestro Razionale (a sort of accountant of the kingdom). Later, because of his expertise, he was also appointed court dignitary and secretary for the financial matters of the whole Kingdom of Naples. He was known and appreciated by the kings he served because of his loyalty and high expertise in the financial matters.[2]
Over his life, he served three kings, namely Charles I of Anjou, Charles II of Naples and Robert of Anjou, and, by serving them, the Pipino family became one of the wealthiest and most notable families of the kingdom; he was also appointed miles, thus being allowed into the circle of noblemen of the Kingdom of Naples. He was also asked by the king Charles II of Naples to lead the destruction of the last Islamic stronghold of the Kingdom of Naples, i.e. the city of Lucera, and the killing or enslavement of the last Muslim community of Southern Italy (1300). In that situation, though he had no experience as a war strategist, he provided evidence of his high skills and managed to carry out the duty assigned by king Charles II of Naples.[3]
Giovanni Pipino da Barletta died in 1316 in Naples; his tomb is located inside the church of San Pietro a Majella, in Naples. On top of the tomb is a statue probably depicting him; the coat of arms of the Pipino family is also visible.[4]