Anna Anachoutlou

Anna Anachoutlou, born in the year 1300, was a remarkable figure in the history of the Empire of Trebizond, serving as both a Christian nun and a politician. The eldest daughter of Emperor Alexios II Megas Komnenos, she joined a convent during her father's reign, a decision that would later be challenged by the tumultuous political landscape following his death.

After the passing of her father, Anna witnessed a rapid succession of rulers, including her brother Andronikos III, her nephew Manuel II, and her other brother Basil. The political turmoil escalated when Basil's widow, Irene Palaiologina, seized power as empress regnant, prompting Anna to take action. In June or July of 1341, she escaped from her convent and began to rally support against Irene, despite the challenges posed by her gender and the presence of male heirs.

On July 17, 1341, Anna successfully captured Trebizond without a fight, as Irene had abdicated shortly before. She was crowned empress, gaining considerable support from various factions within the empire, including ethnic minorities and Georgian soldiers. However, her reign was not without opposition, particularly from elements of the Trapezuntine nobility who favored a male heir.

Anna's rule lasted just over a year, during which she achieved military success against the Aq Qoyunlu in 1342. Nevertheless, her internal and economic policies drew criticism from her supporters. Ultimately, in late August or early September of 1342, she was deposed by the nobility and met a tragic end, being strangled to death on September 3. The very next day, Michael's son John III captured Trebizond, marking the end of Anna's brief but impactful reign.