Albert Sterz

Albert Sterz (known in Italy as Alberto Sterz) was a German noble who was a leader of mercenary

In April 1363 he finally confronted the rival Great Company of Konrad von Landau who were under contract to the Viscontis. At the Battle of Canturino bridge near Romagnano Sesia in Piedmont Sterz's forces overcame the opposition and the injured Landau was captured, dying later that day from his injuries. The Great Company never recovered from its defeat.

Sterz then contracted with the town of Pisa to assist them in a war with neighbouring Florence. During the rest of that year, his troops attacked several Florentine towns. In mid-1364, owed back-pay by Pisa, Sterz switched sides to fight for Florence, leaving the White Company and joining up with Anichino di Bongardo (Hannekin Baumgarten) to form the Compagnia della Stella (Company of the Star).

At the end of 1365, he signed up with the Papal States and suffered a defeat at the hands of the Perugian forces led by his erstwhile colleague Bongardo. In 1366 he signed up himself to defend Perugia. However, accused of treachery by the Perugians, he was arrested and executed in the town in early November. After his death, the Compagnia della Stella disbanded.

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