Lombards refers to the Lombardi people, an ancient Germanic tribe that originated in the region of northwestern Germany, and later migrated to Italy in the 6th century. They played a significant role in shaping the history, culture, and politics of Italy during the Middle Ages.
The Lombards, also known as Langobards or Longobards, established a powerful kingdom known as the Lombard Kingdom or Lombardy, which encompassed most of the Italian Peninsula from the 6th to the 8th century. They were renowned for their skill in war and their successful conquests, gaining control over regions such as Lombardy, Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna, and parts of Central Italy.
The Lombards were instrumental in the development of Italian law and governance, providing the foundation for the future legal system of medieval Italy. They implemented a distinct legal code known as the Edict of Rothari, which established laws and procedures for various societal aspects including property rights, inheritance, and criminal offenses.
The Lombards also had an impact on the linguistic and cultural heritage of Italy. They introduced their own Germanic dialect, known as Lombardic, which mingled with Latin and other local languages, contributing to the formation of what eventually became the Italian language.
Today, the term Lombards can also refer to individuals who trace their ancestry back to the Lombardi people, particularly those residing in Lombardy, Italy, or individuals bearing the surname Lombard.
