Adaloald

Adaloald, born in six hundred two, was the Lombard king of Italy from six hundred sixteen to six hundred twenty-six. He was the son of King Agilulf and his Catholic queen, Theodelinda. Shortly after his birth, he was baptized, with the abbot Secundus of Non serving as his godfather. Raised in a warrior culture, he was honored as an associate king, lifted on a shield by the warriors at his father's request during his youth.

Upon ascending to the throne as a teenager, Adaloald's reign was marked by the influential presence of his mother, who acted as regent. Together, they oversaw a period of significant religious development, as chronicled by Paul the Deacon in his History of the Lombards. Under their joint rule, numerous churches were renovated, and generous donations were made to holy sites, reflecting a commitment to the Catholic faith.

However, Adaloald's reign took a tragic turn as he succumbed to insanity, leading to a loss of support from the nobles. In six hundred twenty-six, he was deposed and replaced by Arioald, a Lombard noble from Turin, who was known for his hostility towards the Catholic Church. Following his deposition, Adaloald's life came to a mysterious end in Ravenna in six hundred twenty-eight.