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Arechis IDuke of Benevento (591–641)
Date of Birth: .
Country:  Dive |
Content:
Arechis I: Duke of Benevento
Born into a noble family in 591 AD, Arechis I was the nephew of Zotto, the previous Duke of Benevento, and a relative of the dukes of Friuli.
Accession to Power
In the spring of 591 AD, Arechis I was appointed Duke of Benevento by the Lombard king Agilulf following Zotto's death. However, Arechis I was effectively an independent ruler due to the separation of his territories from northern Italy by Byzantine territory.
Territorial Expansion
Arechis I expanded the boundaries of his dukedom, conquering Capua and Venafro in Campania, as well as the region of Basilicata in Calabria. He laid siege to Naples but was unable to capture it, mirroring Zotto's own failed attempt. In the late 620s, he successfully took control of Salerno.
Diplomatic Relations
Throughout his reign, Arechis I maintained positive relations with the Catholic Church. He outlived several Lombard kings, and by the time of his death in 641 AD, the independence of the Duchy of Benevento was firmly established.
Legacy
Arechis I's influence extended beyond his lifetime. He successfully passed on power to his son, Aioulf I, and his reign marked the beginning of an independent and prosperous era for the Duchy of Benevento.
