History
Who Were the Lombards and How Did They Shape Italy?
Discover the Lombards, the Germanic people who ruled Italy for two centuries, leaving a lasting legacy in its culture, law, and the region of Lombardy.
What is it?
The Lombards, also known as Langobards, were a Germanic people who invaded and established a kingdom in Italy from 568 to 774 AD. Originating from Scandinavia, they migrated south over several centuries. Led by King Alboin, their invasion marked the end of Byzantine efforts to restore the Roman Empire in the west and shattered the political unity of the Italian peninsula. Their kingdom, with its capital at Pavia, controlled large parts of northern and central Italy. Over time, the Lombards assimilated, adopting Roman customs, names, and eventually converting from Arianism to Catholicism, which helped integrate them with the local population.
Why is it trending?
Historical interest in the Lombards is growing due to a deeper appreciation of their significant role in shaping early medieval Europe. Once viewed simply as "barbarians," they are now recognized for creating a sophisticated culture that blended Germanic, Roman, and Byzantine traditions. This unique cultural fusion is evident in their art, architecture, and legal systems. A key reason for renewed attention is the UNESCO World Heritage designation of "Longobards in Italy. Places of the Power (568-774 A.D.)," a series of seven sites that testify to their architectural and artistic achievements. This recognition highlights their lasting importance and encourages new research and cultural tourism.
How does it affect people?
The Lombards left a profound and lasting legacy in Italy. Their most visible impact is in the name of the modern Italian region of Lombardy. They influenced the Italian language, with some words tracing back to the Lombardic language. Their legal code, the Edictum Rothari of 643, was a foundational text that blended Germanic customary law with Roman legal concepts, influencing Italian law for centuries. The Lombard rule also contributed to the political fragmentation of Italy, establishing a division between the north and south that would persist for centuries. Their introduction of a decentralized, ducal-based power structure shaped the social and political fabric of medieval Italy.