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Policy in
Cyprus
The acquisition
of Cyprus by Venice was prompted by the value of the island as a
base for her fleets in the eastern Mediterranean and as a
trading centre for the Levant. The policy of Venice was directed
to making the island as secure as possible, since it was clear
that it formed a vulnerable outpost in a hostile area.
To reconcile
the inhabitants to their new masters, the republic confirmed the
nobility and the clergy in their ancient privileges and
possessions. They promised to govern in accordance with the
Assizes of Jerusalem, which were translated into Italian and
published in Venice in 1535. The dominance of the Latin
archbishop was, of course, maintained, but it was expressly
declared by the Pope that the Orthodox church was not to be
molested for observing its ancient customs. Certain concessions
were made to the peasantry, who were allowed to purchase their
freedom for a fixed sum. The taxes hitherto paid under the
Lusignans were confirmed and a promise given that no further
burdens would be imposed.
The administration of the island was
entrusted to a lieutenant-governor chosen from the nobility of
Venice and appointed for a term of two years. With him were
associated two other nobles, called -Consiglieri-. These three
resided at Nicosia and constituted the -Rettori-, or governors,
of the island. The collection of taxes was entrusted to two
other noblemen, called -Camerlenghi-, and the military
administration was under the -Provveditore.
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