Pandulf II of Salerno facts for kids

Pandulf II was a prince who ruled a place called Salerno for a short time in the 900s. He was part of a powerful family of princes from Capua.

The Story of Prince Pandulf II

How Pandulf Became a Prince

Pandulf II was born into a very important family of rulers. His father was a strong leader named Pandulf Ironhead. Pandulf Ironhead was so powerful that he helped bring back another prince, Gisulf I of Salerno, to his throne in Salerno.

Gisulf I didn't have any children, so he chose young Pandulf II to be his heir. This meant Pandulf II would take over after Gisulf. When Gisulf I passed away in 977, Pandulf II became a co-prince of Salerno, sharing power with his father.

A Kingdom Divided

In March 981, Pandulf Ironhead, the powerful father, died. His large kingdom was then split among his sons. Pandulf II inherited only Salerno. His older brother, Landulf IV, received the areas of Capua and Benevento.

Losing His Throne

Pandulf II was still young when he became the sole prince of Salerno. Soon after, another powerful leader named Manso, Duke of Amalfi challenged him. Manso managed to remove Pandulf II from his position. He even got official recognition from the Emperor, meaning the Emperor agreed that Manso should be the new ruler. Pandulf II never got his principality back.

The Final Battle

After losing his throne, Pandulf II joined his brother, Landulf IV. Landulf had also faced problems and was left with only Capua to rule. Together, the brothers joined the army of Emperor Otto II. They marched south to Calabria to fight against a group called the Saracens.

On July 13, 982, Pandulf II and his brother Landulf IV both died in this battle, known as the Battle of Stilo.