Landulf IV of Benevento facts for kids

Landulf IV (born around 950 – died July 13, 982) was an important leader in southern Italy during the 10th century. He became the prince of Capua and Benevento in 968, sharing power with his father, Pandulf Ironhead. Later, around 977 or 978, he also became a prince of Salerno alongside his father.

Landulf's rise to power happened after his uncle, Landulf III, passed away in 968. His father, Pandulf, chose to make Landulf IV a co-ruler instead of his nephew, Pandulf II.

Early Life and Challenges

Landulf IV faced challenges early in his rule. In 969, his father, Pandulf I, was captured during the Battle of Bovino. This left the family's lands vulnerable.

A Byzantine general from Bari, named Eugenius, took advantage of this. He captured the town of Avellino and then surrounded the cities of Capua and Benevento.

During this difficult time, Landulf's mother, Aloara of Capua, and Landulf I, Archbishop of Benevento, stepped up. They managed the government to protect their cities from the Byzantines.

In 977, after his father was freed, Landulf joined him on a military trip. They defended the important Monte Cassino monastery from attacks by Count Bernard of Alife.

Division of the Principality

When Pandulf I died in March 981, his large Lombard principality was divided among his sons. Landulf, as the oldest son, received Capua-Benevento and Spoleto. His younger brother, Pandulf, received Salerno.

However, Emperor Otto II was in southern Italy at the time, fighting against the Saracens. The Emperor took the Duchy of Spoleto away from Landulf. He gave it instead to Thrasimund, who was a duke and count in other areas.

Soon after, Landulf also had to accept another division. The lands of Capua and Benevento, which had been united since 899, were split. His cousin, Pandulf II, became the Prince of Benevento.

Later Years and Legacy

After these divisions, Landulf IV was mainly the Prince of Capua. He supported the Cluniac reform, which was a movement to improve monasteries. He also helped establish the church of San Croce in Caiazzo.

Landulf later joined his brother Pandulf II in Calabria. They fought alongside Emperor Otto II against the Saracens. Both Landulf and his brother died in the Battle of Stilo on July 13, 982.

After Landulf's death, his younger brother, Landenulf, became the new ruler. Landenulf was still young, so his mother, Aloara, acted as his regent, guiding the government.