Zotto

Zotto, a prominent military officer of the Lombards, emerged as a formidable leader in the Mezzogiorno during the late sixth century. He is widely recognized as the founder of the Duchy of Benevento, a title he held from five hundred seventy-one, marking a significant chapter in Lombard history.

In August of five hundred seventy, Zotto led his troops into Campania, where he consistently triumphed over the Byzantine forces. His strategic prowess allowed him to establish his camp in Benevento, which subsequently became the capital of the newly formed duchy. Despite his successes, Zotto faced challenges, notably in his attempt to capture Naples, which culminated in a failed siege in five hundred eighty-one.

As duke, Zotto enjoyed a degree of quasi-independence, operating in the southern regions of the peninsula while the Lombard king Authari maintained control over the north. His reign was marked by military campaigns that included the sacking of towns such as Atina and Aquino, as well as the monastery of Monte Cassino. However, in five hundred eighty-nine, he ultimately acknowledged the authority of the Lombard king.

Zotto's legacy came to an end with his death in five hundred ninety-one, after which he was succeeded by Arechis, who would continue the lineage of leadership in the Duchy of Benevento.