VETTOR

PISANI (d. 1380)  , Venetian admiral, was in command of the Venetian fleet in 1378 during the war against the Genoese, whom he defeated off Capo d'Anzio; subsequently he recaptured Cattaro, Sebenico and Arbe, which had been seized by the Hungarians, the allies of the Genoese . But the Genoese fleet completely defeated Pisani at Pola in May 1379, and on his return to Venice he was thrown into prison . The enemy now pressed home their victory, and besieged and captured Chioggia, whereby Venice itself was in danger . The people thereupon demanded the liberation of Pisani, in whose skill they had the fullest confidence . The government gave way and appointed the aged commander admiral of the fleet once more . Through his able strategy and daring he recaptured Chioggia, defeated the Genoese and threatened Genoa itself until that republic agreed to peace terms . Pisani died in 138o while on his way to Manfredonia with a squadron to ship provisions . See Vittorio Lazzarini, " La morte e it monumento di Vettor Pisani," in the Nuovo archivio veneto, vol.. xi., pt. ii . (1896) .