Fregoso

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Fregoso, also known as Campofregoso, was a powerful Genoese noble family from Liguria. The clan had many branches and produced the most Doges of Genoa, ruling Sarzana and other lands along the Ligurian Apennines, including Sant’Agata Feltria, which was owned by Agostino Fregoso. Originating from Val Polcevera near Rivarolo, the Fregoso were merchants who became influential in Genoa’s politics from the 13th century. Early leaders included Rolando, a castellan from Voltaggio, Gavi and Porto Venere. Thirteen Fregoso became doge; the best known was Paolo Fregoso, whose career showed the family’s ambitious and calculating political style. Other notable members included military leaders Abraham, Augustine and Cesare; writer Antoniotto; and cleric Federigo Fregoso. The family’s power faded in the early 16th century after the end of Ottaviano Fregoso’s dogate, and Ottaviano died in prison in Ischia. In 1528 the Fregoso were absorbed into the Alberghi families De Fornari and De Ferrari; the name returned in 1576 but with little real influence thereafter.