The Lombards, invaded Italy in 568, rapidly defeated the Byzantines in the rich north Italian plain. The arrival of Lombards introduces definitely end of imperial unity.
Originating probably in northern Germany, the Lombards moving to south through
Hungary in the early 6th century reached , in 568, northern Italy. By this time they are already Arian Christians.
By 572 the whole north of Italy is in their hands . gradually Pavia emerges as their capital city.. The imperial Byzantine territory in Italy becomes much more clearly circumscribed
At this time the Exarch in Ravenna rules south of the Po river territories and the coastal strip of Adriatic sea including the settlements on the islands of the Venetian lagoon.
Corsica and Sardinia were ruled by another Exarch, ruling from Carthage. Sicily was linked more directly with Constantinople
This fragmentation of government soon proves impossible to hold. During the 7th century the Lombards steadily extend their power in the north, and local dukes take possession of many countries of the south of Italy.
In the 8th century ancient cities such as Florence Naples and papal Rome show increasing signs of independence and Venice too begins to choose its own doges
In 751 Lombards take Ravenna, Byzantine influence on places such as Venice will remain strong but Italy can no longer be said part of the Roman empire.