Andronikos Kontostephanos (son of Isaac)

Andronikos Kontostephanos (c. 1132 – after 1182) was a prominent Byzantine military leader during the reigns of emperors Manuel I Komnenos and Alexios II Komnenos. He was the son of Isaac Kontostephanos and a niece of Emperor John II Komnenos, making him a member of both the Kontostephanos and Komnenos aristocratic families.

Andronikos distinguished himself in numerous military campaigns, demonstrating both strategic acumen and personal bravery. He held the high-ranking post of Megas Doux, effectively commander-in-chief of the Byzantine navy, and played a crucial role in naval operations in the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. His leadership was instrumental in defending Byzantine interests against various threats, including Norman incursions and Venetian ambitions.

He commanded the Byzantine fleet during the Venetian War (1171-1175), achieving notable successes. He led naval expeditions against Egypt in 1169, aimed at weakening the Ayyubid dynasty. He participated in battles in the Balkans against the Hungarians and other groups.

Andronikos was also involved in internal political intrigues within the Byzantine court. He was a supporter of the Komnenos dynasty and played a role in securing the succession after Manuel I's death. However, his influence waned during the reign of the young Alexios II Komnenos, and he was eventually implicated in a conspiracy and imprisoned. The exact circumstances of his death are unclear, but he disappears from the historical record after 1182. He is remembered as one of the most capable and influential Byzantine commanders of the Komnenian period.