THE CITY OF SHKODRA AS THE ROYAL RESIDENCE OF THE SERBIAN VOJISLAVLJEVIĆ DYNASTY IN THE 11TH CENTURY

Abstract

The subject of this paper is the historical development of Duklja, with a particular focus on the position of Shkodra, which became part of the state following the achievement of political independence in 1042. Duklja continued to expand, eventually evolving into a kingdom, while the Church of Bar was elevated to the rank of an archbishopric under the rule of Mihailo and Konstantin Bodin, successors of Prince Stefan Vojislav, the founder of the Serbian Vojislavljević dynasty. Due to its advantageous geostrategic location, Shkodra became one of the most important cities in the realm. It was considered the capital where King Bodin welcomed the Crusader army, commanded by Raymond, Count of Toulouse, during the winter of 1096/97. By examining available historical sources, this paper aims to emphasize the significance of Shkodra as the residence of the Dukljan rulers during the 11th century.