A forged diploma created an empire that vanished in a century

A shoemaker's apprentice claims to be heir to Byzantium and issues noble titles - did he create an empire from thin air? A forged diploma created an empire that vanished in a century This episode explores the story of Gian Antonio Lazier, a man who, despite humble beginnings, managed to convince powerful European rulers of his imperial lineage. How did he build an empire that had been dead for centuries? Person: Gian Antonio Lazier Born: June 9, 1678 Location: Perloz, Aosta Valley Event: Forged diploma for Ludovisi brothers Date: December 21, 1721 - Gian Antonio Lazier, born to Francesco Lazier and Giacobina Neiroz, had no documented imperial connections. - The Byzantine Empire had fallen 268 years before Lazier's birth, with Constantinople falling in 1453. - On April 5, 1720, Holy Roman Emperor Charles VI granted Lazier an imperial diploma to confer titles of nobility. - Lazier's journey began with an apprenticeship to a shoemaker and a brief stay in a monastery. - In 1707, the Inquisition condemned Lazier for attempted polygamy, leading to seven months in prison. To listen to this podcast ad-free and access premium episodes, try our subscription with a 14-day free trial at obomedia.com. © 2026 OBOMEDIA. All rights reserved. This episode and its content (audio, text, and related materials) are the exclusive property of OBOMEDIA and are protected by applicable copyright laws. Reproduction, distribution, editing, or commercial use, in whole or in part, without prior written permission from OBOMEDIA is prohibited. For permissions, licensing, and business inquiries: [email protected].