Historical Encyclopedia
The conquest of Italy by the Lombards in the 6th-7th centuries became a key event in the history of this region, significantly influencing its culture, economy, and political structure. The Lombards, a Germanic tribe, began their invasion of Italy in 568 and their rule lasted until 774.
Before the arrival of the Lombards, Italy was divided into several kingdoms and territories, including the Byzantine Empire, which controlled the southern regions, and the Kingdom of the Ostrogoths in the north. The Lombards, originating from their lands in Central Europe, began moving southward, seeking to conquer new territories.
The Lombards crossed the Alps in 568 under the leadership of King Alboin. They quickly conquered much of Northern Italy, including significant cities such as Milan and Pavia. Initially, their successes were due to the weakness of local rulers and the lack of unity among the Italian lands.
The main strategies used by the Lombards included:
The rule of the Lombards was characterized by significant changes in the social and economic structure of the region. The Lombard aristocracy actively interacted with the local population, contributing to cultural exchange.
The Lombards practiced Arianism but soon converted to Catholicism, which facilitated their integration into the broader European Christian culture. This also fostered relations with the papacy and other Christian states.
The Lombard rule led to changes in the economy of Italy. Agriculture became the foundation of the economy, while craft production began to develop due to trade with neighboring territories.
With the establishment of Lombard power, cities such as Pavia became important political and cultural centers. They solidified their positions as trade hubs, which contributed to economic development.
By the 8th century, the Lombard Kingdom began to weaken due to internal conflicts and external threats. In 774, following the victory of Charlemagne, the Lombards were finally subjected to the Franks, marking the end of their rule in Italy.
Despite their fall, the Lombards left a significant legacy. Their administrative and legal structures influenced the formation of medieval Italy, and Lombard laws became the basis for further legal systems in the region.
The conquest of Italy by the Lombards marked an important milestone in the history of Europe. Their rule contributed to cultural and economic changes that had a lasting impact on the development of Italy. Although the Lombard Kingdom lasted only a few centuries, its influence is still felt today.