Byzantine vs Lombard Italy: 6th-8th Century Territorial Map #3897494 (License: Personal Use)

The map depicts the fragmented political landscape of Italy following the Gothic War (535-554), where the Byzantine Empire retained coastal enclaves-including Ravenna, Rome, and Benevento-while the Lombards controlled much of the interior and north. Cities like Milan, Pavia, and Spoleto served as major Lombard ducal centers, while Byzantine exarchates persisted until the 8th century. The Franks, Bavari, and Avari are noted as neighboring powers influencing regional dynamics.

Used in educational history articles, university lectures, or museum exhibits on early medieval Europe; serves users seeking visual context for the Lombard invasion, Byzantine reconquest, and the formation of Italian principalities.