Liuva I facts for kids
Liuva I was a Visigothic king who ruled parts of what are now Spain and France. He became king after the death of the previous ruler, Athanagild. Liuva I ruled for a few years in the late 560s and early 570s.
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Who Was Liuva I?
Liuva I was a king of the Visigothic Kingdom, which was a powerful realm in Europe during the Middle Ages. The Visigoths were a Germanic people who settled in parts of the Roman Empire, eventually forming their own kingdom. This kingdom included much of modern-day Spain (called Hispania back then) and a region in southern France known as Septimania.
Becoming King
Liuva became king in 567 AD in a city called Narbonne. This city was important because it was close to the border with the Franks, another powerful group of people. Some historians believe that Liuva was chosen as king in this area because the Franks were becoming a bigger threat to the Visigothic Kingdom. The Franks, led by their king Guntram, were known to be quite aggressive towards their neighbors.
Sharing His Power
Because of the growing threat from the Franks, Liuva I made an important decision. In his second year as king, he chose his younger brother, Liuvigild, to be his co-ruler. This meant they would rule together. Liuva also made Liuvigild his heir, meaning Liuvigild would become king after Liuva. Liuvigild was put in charge of the eastern part of Hispania, which was a key area to defend against any attacks.
A Safe Place for a Bishop
The Frankish threat might also explain why Liuva I offered safety to a bishop named Pronimius. Pronimius had left his home city of Bourges in Frankish territory and came to live in Septimania, which was under Liuva's control. Liuva made him the bishop of Agde, an important religious leader in that city. Pronimius continued in this role even into Liuvigild's reign.
The End of His Reign
Liuva I ruled for about three years. He passed away from causes that are not known today. After his death, his brother Liuvigild became the sole ruler of the Visigothic Kingdom.
