William I of Sicily - Later Years

Later Years

Thus freed from feudal revolts, William confided the government to men trained in Maio's school, creating a triumvirate: the grand protonotary, Matthew of Ajello; Count Sylvester of Marsico, who had inherited Maio's property; and the Bishop Palmer of Syracuse, elect, but not consecrated. His latter years were peaceful; he was now the champion of the true pope against the emperor, and Alexander III was installed in the Lateran Palace in November 1165 by a guard of Normans.

William died on May 7, 1166 and was interred in Palermo Cathedral, although he was later moved to Monreale Cathedral by his son and heir William II of Sicily when that building was completed. By his wife, Margaret of Navarre, daughter of García Ramírez of Navarre, he had four sons:

1. Roger IV, Duke of Apulia (b. 1152 – d. 1161).
2. Robert, Prince of Capua (b. 1153 – d. 1158).
3. William II of Sicily (b. 1155 – d. 1189).
4. Henry, Prince of Capua (b. 1158 – d. 1172).