Who was Rothari and during what period did he reign as King of the Lombards?

Rothari was the King of the Lombards, ruling from 636 to 652. He belonged to the Harodingian house, a lineage tracing back to Arodus.

What was Rothari's title and role before becoming King of the Lombards?

Before ascending to the throne, Rothari held the position of Duke of Brescia. He was a prominent figure within the Lombard duchies prior to his election as king.

Who did Rothari succeed as the King of the Lombards, and what was his religious affiliation?

Rothari succeeded Arioald as the King of the Lombards. Like his predecessor, Rothari was an adherent of Arianism, a Christian theological doctrine.

What is the estimated birth and death year for Rothari, and how old was he when he died?

Rothari was born around 606 and died in 652, making him approximately 45 to 46 years old at the time of his death.

Who was Rothari's father, and what was his royal dynasty?

Rothari's father was named Nanding. He belonged to the Harodingian dynasty, indicating his noble lineage within the Lombard hierarchy.

Who was Rothari's wife, and what was her lineage?

Rothari married Gundeberga, who was the widow of his predecessor, Arioald. Gundeberga was the daughter of King Agilulf and Queen Theodelinda, notable figures in Lombard history.

Why did Gundeberga agree to marry Rothari, considering their differing religious beliefs?

Gundeberga, who was Catholic, agreed to marry Rothari, an Arian, because he demonstrated tolerance towards Catholics. This religious tolerance likely facilitated their union and political stability.

Who succeeded Rothari as the King of the Lombards?

Rothari was succeeded by his son, Rodoald, who continued the rule of the Lombard kingdom after his father's death.

What does the 11th-century manuscript 'Codex Legum Longobardorum' depict regarding Rothari?

The 'Codex Legum Longobardorum', an 11th-century manuscript, features a miniature illustration of King Rothari. This artwork serves as a historical representation of the Lombard king.

According to Fredegar's Chronicle, what actions did Rothari take at the beginning of his reign?

Fredegar's Chronicle reports that at the start of his reign, Rothari executed many insubordinate nobles. He also enforced strict discipline in his pursuit of peace and order within the kingdom.

How did Rothari attempt to strengthen the central authority of the Lombard monarchy?

Rothari worked to reinforce the central authority of the king by overcoming resistance from the various dukes. This effort aimed to consolidate power and ensure a more unified kingdom.

What significant cities and territories did Rothari conquer in 641?

In 641, Rothari conquered Genoa and secured all remaining Eastern Roman territories located in the lower valley of the Po River, including the city of Oderzo (anciently known as Opitergium).

What important legal document did Rothari promulgate, and when?

Rothari promulgated the Edictum Rothari in 642 or 643. This edict was a significant compilation of Lombard law.

What was the Edictum Rothari, and what was its basis?

The Edictum Rothari was a compilation of Lombard customary law, based on ancient traditions and customs. It represented the first written codification of these laws.

According to Paul the Deacon, what was the geographical extent of Rothari's conquests against the Eastern Roman Empire?

Paul the Deacon states that Rothari captured all the Roman cities situated along the coast, stretching from the city of Luna in Tuscany up to the borders of the Frankish territories.

What was the strategic impact of Rothari's conquests on the Eastern Roman Empire's holdings in Italy?

Rothari's military successes significantly reduced the Eastern Roman Empire's territory in Italy, leaving them with only the marshlands around Ravenna.

Who led the Eastern Roman forces in an attempt to regain territory from Rothari, and what was the outcome?

The Exarch of Ravenna, Plato, led an invading army against Rothari. However, his forces were defeated by Rothari on the banks of the Scultenna River (modern-day Panaro) near Modena, suffering a loss of 8,000 men.

Did Rothari recapture Oderzo, and if so, when?

Yes, Rothari recaptured Oderzo in 645, the same year he defeated the Exarch Plato's army. This marked a reassertion of Lombard control over the region.

What is considered Rothari's most significant legacy, beyond his military achievements?

While Rothari was a successful military leader, conquering Liguria, his greatest legacy is considered to be legislative. The promulgation of the Edictum Rothari marked a major step in the development of Lombard law.

In what language was the Edictum Rothari composed, and how was it affirmed?

The Edictum Rothari was written in Latin, the formal language of law and administration in the region. It was affirmed in a gairethinx, which was a formal assembly or legal proceeding.

What is the significance of the Edictum Rothari in the context of Lombard rule?

The Edictum Rothari provided a lasting legal framework for the Lombard kingdom and represented a crucial step in the institutional consolidation of their rule. It marked a transition from unwritten customs to codified law.

How did Rothari's marriage connect him to the dominant Bavarian dynasty, even though he wasn't a direct member?

Rothari reinforced his position by marrying Gundeberga, the widow of the previous king, Arioald. This marriage strategy mirrored the pattern used by other rulers, like Grimoald of Benevento, to integrate into or align with powerful existing dynasties, such as the Bavarian dynasty which held significant influence.

What two key elements of Lombard political tradition did Rothari's reign embody?

Rothari's reign represented the acceptance and integration of two cornerstones of the Lombard political tradition: the Romanized court practices established by King Agilulf and the formal codification of Lombard law through his edict.

What is the traditional name given to a baptistery in Monte Sant'Angelo, and what is its likely association?

A baptistery located in Monte Sant'Angelo is traditionally known as the "Tomb of Rothari." However, historical evidence suggests he was more likely buried elsewhere.

Where is Rothari believed to have been buried, and who founded this location?

Rothari was probably buried in the church of San Giovanni Domnarum in Pavia. This church was founded by his wife, Gundeberga.

What does the map titled 'Italy at the time of Rothari' illustrate?

The map visually represents the territorial divisions and political landscape of Italy during Rothari's reign, showing the extent of Lombard control and remaining Byzantine territories.

What was the role of the Edictum Rothari in preserving Lombard customs?

The Edictum Rothari served as the first written codification of Lombard customary law. By documenting these ancient customs in a formal legal text, it ensured their preservation and provided a stable legal foundation for the kingdom.

What were the primary sources used to compile the information about Rothari?

The information presented is based on sources including Treccani, Encyclopædia Britannica, Paul the Deacon's Historia Langobardorum, academic works by Piero Majocchi, and resources from Lombardia Beni Culturali.

What succession box information is available for Rothari's roles?

According to the succession box, Rothari served as Duke of Brescia from an unknown date until 636, succeeding Alchis and being succeeded by Gaidoald. He then reigned as King of the Lombards from 636 to 652, succeeding Arioald and being succeeded by Rodoald.

Who was the first ruler listed in the 'Kings of Italy' navbox, and what was his title?

The first ruler listed is Odoacer, who held the title of King of Italy from 476 to 493, preceding the Ostrogothic rule.

Which dynasty ruled Italy after Odoacer, and who was their most famous ruler?

The Ostrogoths ruled Italy after Odoacer. Their most famous ruler listed is Theodoric the Great, who reigned from 493 to 526.

When did the Lombards first establish their kingdom in Italy, and who was their initial king?

The Lombards established their kingdom in Italy starting in 568. Their first king mentioned in the list is Alboin, who reigned from 568 to 572.

Who was the last Lombard king of Italy according to the provided navbox?

Desiderius was the last Lombard king of Italy, reigning from 756 until 774, when the Lombard kingdom was conquered by Charlemagne.

Which dynasty took control of Italy after the Lombard kingdom fell?

The Carolingian dynasty took control of Italy after the fall of the Lombard kingdom. Charlemagne himself became King of Italy in 774.

Who was the last Carolingian ruler of Italy listed in the navbox?

Charles III, also known as Charles the Fat, was the last Carolingian ruler of Italy listed, reigning from 879 to 887.

What period is designated as the 'Interregnum' for the Lombards, and what does it signify?

The 'Interregnum' for the Lombards is noted from 574 to 584. This period signifies a time when there was no single king, and rule was likely exercised by the dukes collectively.

Who ruled Italy between the end of the Carolingian era and the formal establishment of the Holy Roman Empire's rule?

Between the Carolingian era and the formal establishment of the Holy Roman Empire's rule (around 962), various non-dynastic rulers and competing houses, such as the Unruochings (Berengar I), Guideschi (Guy III of Spoleto), and Anscarids (Berengar II), vied for control of Italy.

When did the Kingdom of Italy become formally integrated into the Holy Roman Empire?

The Kingdom of Italy became formally integrated into the Holy Roman Empire starting in 962, with Otto I being crowned Emperor. This marked a new phase of imperial rule over the region.

Name three Holy Roman Emperors who also held the title of King of Italy.

Three Holy Roman Emperors who also held the title of King of Italy include Otto the Great (reigned 962-973), Frederick I (Barbarossa, reigned 1154-1186 as King of Italy, later Emperor), and Charles V (reigned 1530-1556 as King of Italy).

What is the overall time span covered by the 'Kings of Italy' navbox?

The navbox covers the period from 476, with the deposition of the last Western Roman Emperor, to 1556, marking the end of Charles V's reign as King of Italy.

What international authority databases are referenced for information on Rothari?

Rothari is referenced in several international authority databases, including ISNI, VIAF (Virtual International Authority File), GND (German National Library), FAST (Library of Congress Name Authority File), and WorldCat.

Which national authority files contain information about Rothari?

Rothari is listed in the authority files of the United States (Library of Congress) and Greece (National Library).

What specific Italian and German biographical resources mention Rothari?

Rothari is mentioned in the Italian People section of the Treccani encyclopedia (Dizionario Biografico) and in the Deutsche Biographie resource.

What university collection includes Rothari in its database?

Rothari is included in the database of the Yale University art collection, specifically the Lux collection.

What was the significance of Rothari's military campaigns against the Eastern Roman Empire?

Rothari's military campaigns were highly successful, leading to the conquest of Genoa and other territories, significantly reducing the Byzantine presence in northern Italy to only the Ravennan marshes. This solidified Lombard control over much of the peninsula.

How did Rothari's reign contribute to the institutional development of the Lombard kingdom?

Rothari's reign was pivotal for institutional development through the promulgation of the Edictum Rothari, the first written codification of Lombard law. This provided a structured legal system and marked a significant step towards consolidating Lombard rule.

What does the term 'Arian' signify in relation to Rothari and Arioald?

The term 'Arian' refers to followers of Arianism, a Christian doctrine that differed from the Nicene Creed, particularly regarding the nature of Jesus Christ. Both Rothari and his predecessor Arioald adhered to this faith.

What was the 'gairethinx' mentioned in relation to the Edictum Rothari?

A 'gairethinx' was a formal assembly or legal proceeding used to affirm laws or decisions among the Lombards. The Edictum Rothari was affirmed in such a manner, lending it official sanction.

What does the phrase 'house of Arodus' refer to in connection with Rothari?

The phrase 'house of Arodus' indicates Rothari's lineage or family affiliation, suggesting that Arodus was an ancestor or a significant figure in his family's history within the Lombard nobility.

Rothari Wiki: Rothari: The Lombard Lawgiver King

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

The Life of Rothari

Royal Lineage and Election

Rothari, born circa 606 AD, hailed from the Harodingian house and was the son of Nanding. He held the significant position of Duke of Brescia before ascending to the throne. Upon the death of King Arioald in 636 AD, Rothari was elected King of the Lombards, a testament to his influence and standing within the kingdom.

Marriage and Religious Tolerance

Rothari married Gundeberga, the widow of his predecessor Arioald. Gundeberga was the daughter of the former Catholic King Agilulf and Queen Theodelinda. Her agreement to marry Rothari, an Arian, was contingent upon his promise of tolerance towards the Catholic population within the Lombard kingdom. This strategic marriage underscored the complex religious landscape of the era.

Consolidation of Royal Power

Early in his reign, Rothari took decisive action to assert royal authority. Historical accounts suggest he executed numerous insubordinate nobles, thereby reinforcing the central power of the monarchy against potential challenges from the powerful Lombard dukes. His reign was characterized by efforts to maintain peace through strict discipline and effective governance.

Rothari's Reign and Campaigns

Territorial Expansion

Rothari was an active and successful military leader. In 641 AD, he captured Genoa and secured control over the remaining Eastern Roman territories in the lower Po River valley, including the city of Oderzo. Before launching a campaign against the remaining Byzantine territories in Liguria in 643 AD, he issued his famous Edict.

The Edictum Rothari

Prior to his campaign into Liguria in 643 AD, Rothari promulgated the Edictum Rothari. This landmark compilation represented the first written codification of Lombard customary law. Composed in Latin, it was affirmed through a traditional Lombard legal assembly known as a gairethinx, establishing a foundational legal framework for the kingdom.

Conflict with the Byzantine Empire

Rothari significantly reduced the Byzantine presence in Italy. He conquered all remaining Roman cities along the coast from Luna in Tuscany to the Frankish borders. In 645 AD, the Exarch of Ravenna, Plato, attempted to regain territory but suffered a decisive defeat by Rothari's forces on the banks of the Scultenna (modern Panaro River) near Modena, losing approximately 8,000 men. Rothari also recaptured Oderzo in the same year.

Rothari's Enduring Legacy

Legislative Foundation

Rothari's most significant contribution was the Edictum Rothari. This substantial legal code, which survives independently, provided a lasting legal framework for the Lombard kingdom. It marked a critical step in the institutional consolidation of Lombard rule, integrating Germanic customs with Roman legal traditions.

Warrior and Lawgiver

Paul the Deacon describes Rothari as both a successful military commander and a significant legislator. His reign embodied key aspects of the Lombard political tradition: the adaptation of the Romanized court established by Agilulf and the formal codification of Lombard law. His actions against the Byzantines and his legal reforms solidified his reputation as a formidable ruler.

Succession and Memorial

Rothari was succeeded by his son, Rodoald. While a baptistery in Monte Sant'Angelo is traditionally associated with his burial, historical consensus suggests he was likely interred in the Church of San Giovanni Domnarum in Pavia, a foundation established by his wife, Gundeberga.

Historical Context and Notes

Dynastic Significance

Although Rothari did not belong to the dominant Bavarian dynasty that frequently held the succession between 616 and 712, he strategically married into it. This approach, mirroring that of later rulers like Grimoald of Benevento, helped solidify his position and lineage within the Lombard power structure.

Italy in the 7th Century

Rothari's reign occurred during a period of fragmentation and conflict in Italy, with the Lombards vying for dominance against the lingering influence of the Byzantine Empire. His military successes and legal reforms played a crucial role in shaping the political and legal landscape of the Lombard kingdom during this pivotal era.

Authority Control

Authority Control Databases
International	ISNI VIAF GND FAST WorldCat
National	United States Greece
People	Italian People DeutscheBiographie
Other	Yale LUX

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Rothari" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about rothari while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

continental divide

carew raleigh 1605–1666

thomas sewell neo-nazi

french air and space force

2013 us open– men's singles

mhparena

association football positions

horton general hospital

constitutional monarchy

printmaking

References

"RÃ²tari re dei Longobardi", Treccani

A full list of references for this article are available at the Rothari Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice Regarding Historical Content

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data, primarily Wikipedia, and may not encompass all nuances or the most current historical interpretations.

This is not professional historical or legal advice. The information provided is not a substitute for consultation with qualified historians, legal scholars, or other subject matter experts. Always consult primary sources and academic literature for in-depth study and verification. No reliance should be placed on the information herein without independent, expert verification.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.

Rothari: The Lombard Lawgiver King

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The Life of Rothari ⏳

🏛️ Royal Lineage and Election

🤝 Marriage and Religious Tolerance

⚖️ Consolidation of Royal Power

Rothari's Reign and Campaigns ⚔️

🗺️ Territorial Expansion

📜 The Edictum Rothari

🛡️ Conflict with the Byzantine Empire

Rothari's Enduring Legacy 🌟

⚖️ Legislative Foundation

👑 Warrior and Lawgiver

➡️ Succession and Memorial

Historical Context and Notes 📖

🏛️ Dynastic Significance

🌍 Italy in the 7th Century

Authority Control 🔗

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice Regarding Historical Content

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Life of Rothari

Royal Lineage and Election

Marriage and Religious Tolerance

Consolidation of Royal Power

Rothari's Reign and Campaigns

Territorial Expansion

The Edictum Rothari

Conflict with the Byzantine Empire

Rothari's Enduring Legacy

Legislative Foundation

Warrior and Lawgiver

Succession and Memorial

Historical Context and Notes

Dynastic Significance

Italy in the 7th Century

Authority Control

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice Regarding Historical Content