Amicus of Giovinazzo

Amicus of Giovinazzo, also Amicus II[a] (fl. 1063–1090), was a Norman nobleman and military leader during the Norman conquest of southern Italy. He was the count of Molfetta from 1068 until his death and of Giovinazzo from 1068 until 1073. He came from a prominent family often opposed to the rule of the Hautevilles. In 1067–68, 1072–73 and 1079–80 he took part in rebellions against the Hauteville Duke of Apulia. In 1067 and 1079 he received aid from Byzantium against the duke.

In 1074–75, Amicus invaded Croatia, more specifically Dalmatia (theme), in support of the Byzantines in a dispute with the Croatian king. He captured the king, Petar Krešimir IV and probably intended to carve out for himself a principality there, but he was defeated by the Republic of Venice and returned to Italy.

In 1081–82, Amicus participated in the invasion of Byzantium. He led the right wing at the Battle of Dyrrhachium. His bungled attack almost cost the Normans the victory, and he endeavoured to redeem himself by charging the emperor, which was nearly successful.

By 1093 he had been succeeded by his son Godfrey.
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