Grimoald of Bavaria

Grimoald of Bavaria, born around the year seven hundred, was a prominent aristocrat who served as the duke of Bavaria from approximately seven hundred fifteen until his death in seven hundred twenty-five. He was the youngest of four sons born to Theodo of Bavaria and his wife Folchaid, and he was also the uncle of Swanachild, the second wife of the influential Charles Martel.

Initially, Grimoald co-reigned with his brothers Theodbert, Theobald, and Tassilo II. However, following the death of their father in seven hundred sixteen, the duchy became embroiled in civil war, leading to the demise of all his brothers by seven hundred nineteen, leaving Grimoald to rule alone. The division of the principality initiated by his father remains a topic of debate, whether it was a territorial split or a power-sharing arrangement.

Grimoald's reign was marked by significant events, including his invitation to Saint Corbinian to evangelize in Bavaria in seven hundred twenty-four. His personal life was tumultuous; he married his brother's widow, Biltrude, which was considered incestuous by canon law. This union drew the ire of Corbinian, who rebuked Grimoald and Pilitrudis, leading to their eventual separation, although their relationship remained complicated.

In a dramatic turn of events, Grimoald's disregard for Corbinian's admonitions culminated in a confrontation that resulted in the bishop excommunicating both him and Pilitrudis. The situation escalated further when Charles Martel invaded Bavaria in seven hundred twenty-five, capturing Pilitrudis and ultimately leading to Grimoald's death in battle.