Saint Theodora of Arta

Theodora was born around 1210-1216, probably in Thessalonica, the daughter of the sebastokrator John Petraliphas, governor of Thessaly and Macedonia. Orphaned of her father while still young, she was raised at Servia near Kozani under the protection of her uncle, Theodore, ruler of Epirus. In 1230 she married Michael II Komnenos Doukas, ruler of Epirus, and settled with him in the capital, Arta.

According to tradition, Michael II banished her from court for some years in favour of a mistress, and Theodora bore her exile patiently before the couple were reconciled. She founded the convent of St George in Arta, where she retired after her husband's death and where she was buried; the church became known as that of St Theodora, and her tomb a place of pilgrimage. She is venerated as the patron saint of Arta.