Liutprand vs Theudelinda

Liutprand issued a comprehensive code of laws, the Edictus Rothari, updating Lombard legal traditions. These laws covered property, inheritance, and criminal justice, and helped unify the Lombard kingdom under a single legal framework.

Liutprand donated the town of Sutri to Pope Gregory II. This act, known as the Donation of Sutri, is considered the first territorial grant to the Papacy, establishing the Papal States and setting a precedent for future papal temporal power.

Liutprand captured the Duchy of Spoleto, a Lombard duchy that had been in rebellion. This conquest consolidated Lombard control over central Italy and expanded the kingdom's territory, demonstrating Liutprand's military strength.

Liutprand was defeated by the Frankish mayor of the palace, Pepin the Short, near the Alps. This battle halted Lombard expansion into Provence and forced Liutprand to abandon claims to Frankish territory, limiting his ambitions.

Theudelinda married Lombard King Authari, strengthening ties between the Lombards and Bavarians. After Authari's death, she married his successor Agilulf, ensuring political continuity and promoting Catholic conversion.

Theudelinda used her influence as queen to promote the conversion of the Lombards from Arianism to Catholicism. She corresponded with Pope Gregory I and supported the construction of Catholic churches, including the Basilica of Saint John in Monza.

Theudelinda founded the Basilica of Saint John in Monza, which became a major religious center. She donated the Iron Crown of Lombardy to the church, a symbol of Lombard kingship later used for coronations.

After Agilulf's death, Theudelinda served as regent for her young son Adaloald. She maintained stability and continued her religious policies, but Adaloald's later mental instability led to his deposition.