Rudolf of Benevento facts for kids

Rudolf (also known as Rudolph) was an important leader in Italy during the 1050s. He served as a special official called a rector for the Pope Leo IX in a place called the Duchy of Benevento.

Rudolf was a brave captain from a region called Swabia (which is now part of Germany). He led his soldiers in a big fight known as the Battle of Civitate. However, his group of soldiers was defeated by a strong leader named Richard I of Aversa.

After this battle, Pope Leo IX made a peace agreement with the Normans, who were powerful people in the area. As part of this agreement, Rudolf was chosen to be the rector of Benevento in 1053. A rector was like a governor, managing the area for the Pope.

Rudolf's time as rector did not last long. The people of Benevento, who often changed their minds, decided they wanted their old leaders back. They had previously sent away their princes, Pandulf III and Landulf VI, but now they asked them to return. So, Rudolf's job ended in 1054.

Who Was Rudolf?

Rudolf was a military leader from Swabia, a region in what is now Germany. He was known for leading soldiers in battles during the 11th century. His role as a captain meant he was in charge of a group of fighters.

Rudolf's Role in Benevento

As the papal rector of Benevento, Rudolf was responsible for governing the Duchy of Benevento on behalf of the Pope. This was a very important job because the Pope had a lot of power and influence in Italy during that time. Rudolf's main task was to keep order and manage the region.

The Battle of Civitate

The Battle of Civitate happened in 1053. It was a major conflict between the Pope's forces, which included Rudolf's soldiers, and the Normans. The Normans were a group of people who had settled in southern Italy and were becoming very powerful. Even though Rudolf was a skilled leader, his troops were defeated by the Norman forces.

Why Did Rudolf's Job End?

Rudolf's time as rector of Benevento was short because the local people changed their minds. They had previously kicked out their own princes, Pandulf III and Landulf VI. But after Rudolf took over, the people decided they wanted their old rulers back. This shows how quickly political situations could change in the Middle Ages.

Sources

• Gregorovius, Ferdinand. Rome in the Middle Ages Vol. IV Part 2. trans. Annie Hamilton. 1905.