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ContardoDuke of Naples in 840
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Contardo, Duke of Naples
In 840 AD, Contardo became the Duke of Naples, marking the only time a Frank held the Neapolitan throne.
Arrival in Naples
In 839, Contardo was sent to Naples by King Lothair I to assist Duke Andrew II in his war against the Principality of Benevento. Andrew II, fearing the Franks as much as the Lombards, offered Contardo the hand of his daughter, Eupraksia, but then postponed the marriage.
Coup d'état and Reign
In March 840, Contardo assassinated his prospective father-in-law and seized the throne of Naples. However, within three days, the Neapolitans revolted and expelled Contardo, electing Sergius I as their duke.
Legacy
Sergius I established the dynasty of hereditary dukes of Naples, thus ending Contardo's brief and turbulent reign as the only Frankish duke of the city.
