What is the historical significance of the title 'kings of the Lombards' or 'reges Langobardorum'?

The title 'kings of the Lombards' or 'reges Langobardorum' refers to the monarchs who ruled the Lombard people. Their rule began in the early 6th century and continued until the Lombardic identity faded in the 9th and 10th centuries. Notably, after 774, the rulers holding this title were no longer Lombards but Franks.

What is the Iron Crown of Lombardy, and how does it relate to the Lombard kings?

The Iron Crown of Lombardy, also known as *Corona Ferrea*, is a votive crown and reliquary. While it retrospectively became a symbol of Lombard rule from the 12th century onwards, it is important to note that it was never actually used by the Lombard kings themselves during their reigns.

How are the earliest listed Lombard kings described in the historical sources?

The earliest kings listed in the *Origo Gentis Langobardorum* are generally considered to be legendary figures. These rulers purportedly reigned during the Migration Period, a time of significant population movements across Europe.

Who is the earliest Lombard ruler independently attested outside of Lombard tradition?

The earliest Lombard ruler who is independently attested outside of the traditional Lombard narratives is Tato. His existence is confirmed by historical records separate from the Lombard sagas.

Who were some of the legendary rulers mentioned in the early history of the Lombards?

According to legend, early rulers included Shava, and the brothers Ybor and Agio, who, along with their mother Gambara, supposedly led the Lombards' emigration from Scandinavia. Other legendary figures are Agilmund (son of Agio), Laiamicho (also known as Lamissio), and Ortnit.

What characterized the Lething dynasty, and who were some of its notable members?

The Lething dynasty was an early ruling lineage of the Lombards, originating from a figure named Lethuc. Notable kings from this dynasty include Lethuc himself, who ruled for about 40 years around 400 AD; Aldihoc in the mid-5th century; Godehoc, who led the Lombards into modern-day Austria in the 480s; Claffo around 500 AD; Tato in the early 6th century; Wacho, who reigned from 510 to 539 AD; and Walthari, Wacho's son, who ruled from 539 to 546 AD. The dynasty ended with Walthari, as his son was displaced by Audoin.

What significant migration is associated with King Godehoc of the Lething dynasty?

King Godehoc, a ruler from the Lething dynasty, is noted for leading the Lombards into the territory that is now modern-day Austria. This migration occurred during the 480s, marking a westward movement for the people.

Who founded the Gausian dynasty, and what major movement did he lead?

Audoin founded the Gausian dynasty. He led the Lombards into Pannonia, a region that encompasses parts of modern-day Hungary, Austria, and the Balkan states. Audoin's reign followed that of Walthari of the Lething dynasty.

Who was the first Lombard king to rule in Italy, and from which dynasty did he originate?

Alboin was the first Lombard king to rule in Italy. He reigned from 565 to 572 AD and belonged to the Gausian dynasty, continuing the line established by Audoin.

What significant event occurred in Lombard history immediately following the reign of King Cleph?

Following the reign of King Cleph, who ruled from 572 to 574 AD, the Lombards entered a period known as the 'Rule of the Dukes.' This was a ten-year interregnum where ducal authority was dominant before a new king was established.

Who re-established royal authority after the 'Rule of the Dukes,' and what dynasty did he represent?

Authari, son of the previous king Cleph, re-established royal authority in 584 AD, ending the 'Rule of the Dukes.' He ruled until 590 AD and belonged to an unnamed dynasty.

Who succeeded King Authari, and what was their relationship?

Agilulf succeeded King Authari, ruling from 591 AD until approximately 616 AD. Agilulf was the cousin of Authari, indicating a continuation of leadership within a related family line, though not strictly dynastic in the same way as father-to-son succession.

Who was the first king associated with the Bavarian dynasty of the Lombards?

Adaloald was the first king associated with the Bavarian dynasty of the Lombards. He reigned from approximately 616 AD to 626 AD.

Who was Arioald, and what was his position in the Lombard succession?

Arioald ruled as a king of the Lombards from approximately 626 AD to 636 AD. He is noted as a non-dynastic king, meaning he did not directly follow a predecessor from the same established family line.

Who were the kings belonging to the Harodingian family?

The Harodingian family produced two kings: Rothari, who reigned from 636 to 652 AD, and his son Rodoald, who ruled briefly from 652 to 653 AD.

What significant legal code is associated with King Rothari?

King Rothari, a ruler from the Harodingian family, is known for issuing the Edict of Rothari in 643 AD. This edict was a compilation of Lombard laws and customs, representing a significant step in codifying the legal system of the kingdom.

Describe the first restoration of the Bavarian dynasty and its key figures.

The first restoration of the Bavarian dynasty saw Aripert I rule from 653 to 661 AD. He was succeeded by his sons, Perctarit and Godepert, who jointly ruled from 661 to 662 AD. This period marked a return of Bavarian influence to the Lombard throne.

Who was King Grimoald, and what dynasty did he represent?

Grimoald ruled as king from 662 to 671 AD and belonged to the Beneventan dynasty. He seized the throne during a period of instability following the joint rule of Perctarit and Godepert.

What happened after King Grimoald's reign, and who briefly held the title?

After King Grimoald's death in 671 AD, his son Garibald briefly held the title of king for a short period in the same year. However, Garibald was quickly overthrown.

Explain the second restoration of the Bavarian dynasty.

The Bavarian dynasty was restored to the Lombard throne with Perctarit, who had previously ruled jointly with his brother Godepert. Perctarit returned from exile and ruled from 671 to 688 AD. His reign was followed by a rebellion led by Alahis (688-689 AD), after which Perctarit's son, Cunincpert, took the throne (688-700 AD).

Who were the kings ruling during the early 8th century, and what characterized their succession?

The early 8th century saw a complex succession. After Cunincpert (ruled 688-700), his son Liutpert ruled briefly (700-701). Raginpert then usurped the throne in 701, followed by his son Aripert II, who ruled from 701 to 712 AD. This period was marked by contested claims and short reigns.

Who were the significant non-dynastic kings who ruled in the period leading up to the Frankish conquest?

Several non-dynastic kings ruled in the period before the Frankish conquest. These included Ansprand (712), Liutprand (712-744), Hildeprand (744), Ratchis (744-749), Aistulf (749-756), and Desiderius (756-774). Liutprand is notable for his long reign.

What was the significance of King Liutprand's reign?

King Liutprand's reign, from 712 to 744 AD, was one of the longest and most influential in Lombard history. He enacted significant legal reforms and expanded the kingdom's territory, leaving a substantial mark on Lombard governance and law.

Who was the last Lombard king before the Frankish conquest?

The last Lombard king before the Frankish conquest was Desiderius, who reigned from 756 to 774 AD. His reign ended when Charlemagne conquered the Lombards.

Under what circumstances did Charlemagne conquer the Lombards, and who invited him?

Charlemagne conquered the Lombards in 774 AD. He was invited to intervene by Pope Adrian I, who sought assistance against the Lombard king Desiderius. This event marked the end of the Lombard kingdom as an independent entity.

Who were the Carolingian rulers of the Lombards after 774?

After Charlemagne conquered the Lombards in 774, the Carolingian dynasty ruled. Charlemagne himself reigned until 781, after which he passed the kingship to his third son, Pepin. Subsequent Carolingian rulers included Pepin (781-810), Bernard (810-818), Lothair I (818-839), and Louis II (839-875).

What happened to the title 'rex Langobardorum' after the Carolingian era?

The title 'rex Langobardorum,' which was synonymous with 'rex Italiae' (King of Italy), continued to be used well into the High Middle Ages. However, subsequent holders of this title are typically listed under the 'King of Italy' designation rather than specifically as Lombard kings.

What does the family tree indicate about the dynasties ruling the Lombards?

The family tree illustrates the succession of various dynasties, including the Lething, Gausian, Bavarian, Harodingian, Beneventan, and Carolingian dynasties. It also highlights periods of non-dynastic rule and shows the complex interrelationships and claims to the throne over time.

What is the symbolic meaning of the Iron Crown of Lombardy, and when did it gain this significance?

The Iron Crown of Lombardy, a votive crown and reliquary, retrospectively became a symbol of Lombard rule starting from the 12th century. Despite its symbolic importance, it was never actually worn by any Lombard king during their reign.

What does the text imply about the transition from Lombard to Frankish rule?

The text explicitly states that after 774, the kings ruling the Lombards were no longer Lombards but Franks. This indicates a significant political shift following Charlemagne's conquest, marking the end of Lombard sovereignty.

Who were the joint rulers Perctarit and Godepert, and what dynasty did they belong to?

Perctarit and Godepert were brothers who jointly ruled as kings of the Lombards from 661 to 662 AD. They belonged to the Bavarian dynasty, representing a continuation of that lineage on the throne.

What was the 'Rule of the Dukes,' and when did it occur?

The 'Rule of the Dukes' was a ten-year interregnum in Lombard history that occurred after the death of King Cleph in 574 AD. During this period, the kingdom was governed by dukes rather than a single monarch, reflecting a decentralization of power before Authari re-established royal authority in 584 AD.

What is the significance of the title 'rex Langobardorum' lasting into the High Middle Ages?

The continuation of the title 'rex Langobardorum' (King of the Lombards), which became synonymous with 'rex Italiae' (King of Italy), into the High Middle Ages signifies the enduring legacy and influence of the Lombard kingdom, even after its political independence was lost. It shows how the concept of rule over the Lombard territories persisted.

Who was the first king of the Lething dynasty mentioned in the text?

The first king mentioned from the Lething dynasty was Lethuc. He is noted as having ruled for approximately 40 years, likely around the early 5th century.

What was the relationship between King Wacho and King Walthari?

King Wacho was the father of King Walthari. Wacho ruled from 510 to 539 AD, and his son Walthari succeeded him, ruling from 539 to 546 AD. Both were prominent figures of the Lething dynasty.

Who was King Alahis, and what was his role in the Lombard succession?

King Alahis was a rebel who briefly seized power during the second restoration of the Bavarian dynasty. He ruled from 688 to 689 AD, interrupting the reign of Perctarit and preceding Cunincpert.

What does the image caption describe?

The image caption describes the Iron Crown of Lombardy, which is displayed in the Cathedral of Monza. This artifact is noted in the text as having retrospectively become a symbol of Lombard rule, though it was not used by the actual Lombard kings.

What was the primary reason for Charlemagne's intervention in the Lombard kingdom in 774?

Charlemagne intervened in the Lombard kingdom in 774 at the invitation of Pope Adrian I. The Pope sought Charlemagne's help against the Lombard king Desiderius, leading to Charlemagne's conquest of the Lombards.

List Of Kings Of The Lombards Wiki: The Lombard Crown: A Royal Chronicle

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The Kings of the Lombards

Royal Authority

The kings of the Lombards, or reges Langobardorum, were the monarchs who led the Lombard people from the early 6th century until their identity gradually assimilated into the broader European populace by the 9th and 10th centuries. Following the Frankish conquest in 774, the rulers were no longer Lombards but Franks.

Historical Context

The primary historical accounts for the Lombard kings originate from the 7th-century anonymous work, Origo Gentis Langobardorum, and the 8th-century Historia Langobardorum by Paul the Deacon. The earliest rulers listed in these texts are often considered legendary, dating back to the Migration Period. The first ruler independently attested outside Lombard tradition is Tato.

The Iron Crown

From the 12th century onwards, the Corona Ferrea, or the Iron Crown of Lombardy, became a retrospective symbol of their rule. This votive crown and reliquary, displayed in the Cathedral of Monza, was never actually used by the Lombard kings themselves but serves as a potent emblem of their historical significance.

Early Rulers and Dynasties

Legendary Foundations

The earliest rulers are largely figures of legend, purportedly reigning during the tumultuous Migration Period. These include Shava, and the brothers Ybor and Agio, who, alongside their mother Gambara, are credited with leading the Lombard migration from Scandinavia. Other legendary figures include Agilmund, Laiamicho, and Ortnit.

The Lething Dynasty

The Lething dynasty represents an early lineage tracing back to Lethuc. The last ruling member of this line was Walthari, whose son was eventually displaced by Audoin, a member of the Gausi family. Notable rulers from this dynasty include:

Lethuc (fl. c. 400)
Aldihoc (mid-5th century)
Godehoc (c. 480s)
Claffo (fl. c. 500)
Tato (died c. 510)
Wacho (510–539)
Walthari (539–546)

The Gausian Dynasty

Emerging from the Gausi family, Audoin led the Lombards into Pannonia, establishing the Gausian dynasty's prominence. His reign marked a significant period of expansion and consolidation before the eventual move into Italy.

Audoin (546–565)

Kings in Italy

Gausian Dynasty in Italy

Alboin, son of Audoin, led the Lombards into Italy in 568, marking the beginning of their rule on the peninsula. His reign was characterized by conquest and the establishment of the Lombard Kingdom.

Alboin (565–572)

Interregnum and Succession

Following Cleph's assassination in 574, the Lombards entered a ten-year period known as the "Rule of the Dukes," an interregnum where ducal authority superseded royal power. The monarchy was eventually restored, leading to various dynasties and rulers.

Cleph (572–574)
Rule of the Dukes (574–584)
Authari (584–590) - Gausian dynasty
Agilulf (591–c. 616) - Gausian dynasty

Shifting Dynasties

The Lombard monarchy saw several dynastic shifts, including the Bavarian dynasty, periods of non-dynastic rule, and the Harodingians. Key figures include Adaloald, Arioald, Rothari, and Aripert I, each contributing to the evolving political landscape.

Adaloald (c. 616–c. 626) - Bavarian dynasty
Arioald (c. 626–636) - Non-dynastic
Rothari (636–652) - Harodingians
Rodoald (652–653) - Harodingians
Aripert I (653–661) - Bavarian dynasty
Perctarit and Godepert (661–662) - Bavarian dynasty
Grimoald I (662–671) - Beneventan dynasty
Garibald (671) - Beneventan dynasty
Perctarit (671–688) - Bavarian dynasty (restored)
Alahis (688–689) - Rebel
Cunincpert (688–700) - Bavarian dynasty
Liutpert (700–701) - Bavarian dynasty
Raginpert (701) - Bavarian dynasty
Aripert II (701–712) - Bavarian dynasty
Ansprand (712) - Non-dynastic
Liutprand (712–744) - Non-dynastic
Hildeprand (744) - Non-dynastic
Ratchis (744–749) - Non-dynastic
Aistulf (749–756) - Non-dynastic
Desiderius (756–774) - Non-dynastic

The Carolingian Era

Conquest and Union

The Lombard Kingdom's independence concluded in 774 when Charlemagne, responding to an appeal from Pope Adrian I, conquered the Lombard territories. This event integrated the Lombard lands into the expanding Carolingian Empire.

Carolingian Rulers

Following the conquest, Charlemagne himself assumed the title of King of the Lombards. He later passed this kingship to his third son, Pepin, who ruled as King of Italy under Charlemagne's authority. Subsequent Carolingian rulers continued to hold this title.

Charlemagne (774–781)
Pepin of Italy (781–810)
Bernard of Italy (810–818)
Lothair I (818–839)
Louis II (839–875)

The title rex Langobardorum, often synonymous with rex Italiae, persisted into the High Middle Ages, with later holders being recognized as Kings of Italy.

Genealogical Chronicle

Royal Family Tree

The following genealogical chart illustrates the complex lineage of the Lombard kings, highlighting dynastic connections and key figures. The color-coding denotes the ruling dynasties or affiliations.

Family Tree of Lombard Kings
Lething dynasty Gausian dynasty Unnamed dynasty Bavarian dynasty Non-dynastic king Harodingians Beneventan dynasty Carolingian dynasty 👑 Monarch
Lethuc	Aldihoc	Godehoc		Claffo		Tato died 510		Unichus		Wacho r. 510-539		Walthari 539-546		Audoin r. 545-565		Alboin 530-565-572
Lethuc	Aldihoc	Godehoc		Claffo		Tato died 510		Unichus		Wacho r. 510-539		Walthari 539-546		Audoin r. 545-565		Alboin 530-565-572


Cleph 572-574	Rule of the Dukes		Authari 584-590		Agilulf 591-c.616		Garibald I of Bavaria		Waldrada of Neustria		Theudebald of Austrasia		Grasulf I of Friuli		Alboin 530-565-572
Cleph 572-574	Rule of the Dukes		Authari 584-590		Agilulf 591-c.616		Garibald I of Bavaria		Waldrada of Neustria		Theudebald of Austrasia		Grasulf I of Friuli		Alboin 530-565-572
Adaloald c.616-c.626	Arioald c.626-636	Rothari 606-636-652		Rodoald 637-652-653		Perctarit ?-661-662, 671-688		Godepert ?-661-662		Gundeberga		Grimoald 610-662-671		Garibald r. 671		Gundoald Duke of Asti	Gisulf I of Friuli	Tassilo I of Bavaria	Alahis r. 689	Cunincpert 688-689, 689-700	Liutpert 700-701, 702	Raginpert r. 701	Aripert II 701-702, 702-712	Ansprand 657-712	Liutprand r. 712-744	Hildeprand r. 735-744	Ratchis r. 744-749	Aistulf ?-749-756	Desiderius ?-756-774-786	Charlemagne 748-778-814	Hildegard	Desiderata of the Lombards	Liutperga	Tassilo III of Bavaria	Pepin of Italy 781-810	Bernard of Italy 810-818	Lothair I 818-839	Louis II 839-875
Adaloald c.616-c.626	Arioald c.626-636	Rothari 606-636-652		Rodoald 637-652-653		Perctarit ?-661-662, 671-688		Godepert ?-661-662		Gundeberga		Grimoald 610-662-671		Garibald r. 671		Gundoald Duke of Asti	Gisulf I of Friuli	Tassilo I of Bavaria	Alahis r. 689	Cunincpert 688-689, 689-700	Liutpert 700-701, 702	Raginpert r. 701	Aripert II 701-702, 702-712	Ansprand 657-712	Liutprand r. 712-744	Hildeprand r. 735-744	Ratchis r. 744-749	Aistulf ?-749-756	Desiderius ?-756-774-786	Charlemagne 748-778-814	Hildegard	Desiderata of the Lombards	Liutperga	Tassilo III of Bavaria	Pepin of Italy 781-810	Bernard of Italy 810-818	Lothair I 818-839	Louis II 839-875

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the List of kings of the Lombards Wikipedia page

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Academic Disclaimer

Historical Context and Accuracy

This page has been generated by an AI, drawing upon historical records and academic interpretations of the Lombard kings. While rigorous efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information presented, historical scholarship is an evolving field. The content is intended for educational purposes and reflects a snapshot of available data.

This is not a substitute for primary source analysis or advanced historical research. Users are encouraged to consult original texts and scholarly works for a comprehensive understanding of the period. The creators of this page are not liable for any inaccuracies or omissions, nor for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Lombard Crown

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The Kings of the Lombards 👑

📜 Royal Authority

⚔️ Historical Context

💎 The Iron Crown

Early Rulers and Dynasties ⏳

🏛️ Legendary Foundations

🌳 The Lething Dynasty

🦅 The Gausian Dynasty

Kings in Italy 🇮🇹

👑 Gausian Dynasty in Italy

⏳ Interregnum and Succession

🔄 Shifting Dynasties

The Carolingian Era ⚔️

🌍 Conquest and Union

👑 Carolingian Rulers

Genealogical Chronicle 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

🌳 Royal Family Tree

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📜 Historical Context and Accuracy

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Kings of the Lombards

Royal Authority

Historical Context

The Iron Crown

Early Rulers and Dynasties

Legendary Foundations

The Lething Dynasty

The Gausian Dynasty

Kings in Italy

Gausian Dynasty in Italy

Interregnum and Succession

Shifting Dynasties

The Carolingian Era

Conquest and Union

Carolingian Rulers

Genealogical Chronicle

Royal Family Tree

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Historical Context and Accuracy