Maurikios Chartoularios names himself dux of Rome…

Maurikios Chartoularios names himself dux of Rome and revolts against exarch Isaac (Exarchate of Ravenna).

He declares Rome's independence from the Exarchate and from the Empire itself.

Emperor Heraclius had demanded in 638 that the newly elected Pope, Severinus, sign his assent to the Ecthesis, a document which defined monotheletism as the official imperial form of Christianity.

When Severinus refused, Heraclius had in turn refused to recognize him as Pope, and had sent his chartoularios (secretary) Maurikios to Rome to obtain the Pope’s agreement to the Ecthesis.

After his arrival, Maurikios, with the support of the local Roman militia, had occupied the Lateran and plundered the papal palace.

The Exarch Isaac had also rushed to Rome and seized the Lateran treasure for the emperor, although he and Maurikios have retained a significant portion for themselves.

As a result, for almost two years Severinus had been denied access to his office.

Maurikios, now the dux of Rome, attempts to repeat his successful action in 643, but this time he is determined to not share any of the plunder with anyone.

He revolts against Isaac, and declares Rome’s independence from the Exarchate and from the emperor, Constans II.

In response, Isaac dispatches his magister militum Donus, who crushes the revolt.

Maurikios seeks sanctuary in the church of Saint Maria ad Praesepe, but he is dragged from the church and sent in chains to Ravenna and beheaded.