Charibert II

Charibert II, born in six hundred eighteen, was a notable monarch of the Franks, recognized as the offspring of his father's junior wife. Following the death of his father, Clotaire II, in six hundred twenty-nine, Charibert sought to claim the kingdom of Neustria, challenging his elder half-brother Dagobert I, who had been ruling Austrasia since six hundred twenty-three.

In the political maneuvering that ensued, Charibert was represented by his uncle Brodulf, the brother of Queen Sichilde. However, Dagobert's ruthless actions led to Brodulf's death, yet he did not oppose Charibert's acquisition of the nearly independent realm of Aquitaine. This apparent lack of conflict was further highlighted in six hundred thirty-one when Charibert became the godfather to Dagobert's son, Sigebert.

Charibert's dominion encompassed significant territories, including Toulouse, Cahors, Agen, Périgueux, and Saintes, along with his holdings in Gascony. His marriage to Gisela, the daughter of Amand, the Ruler of the Gascons, solidified his power. Charibert's military prowess was evident as he subdued the Basques, bringing the entire region of Novempopulania under his control, which later became known as the Duchy of Vasconia.

Tragically, Charibert's reign was cut short when he died in six hundred thirty-two at Blaye, Gironde. Shortly after his passing, his infant son, Chilperic, was also killed, leading to Aquitaine reverting to Dagobert's rule. Both Charibert and his son were laid to rest in the early Romanesque Basilica of Saint-Romain at Blaye.