Grimoald

Grimoald refers to several historical figures, primarily within the Lombard and Frankish kingdoms. The most prominent was Grimoald, son of King Gisulf I of Friuli. He rebelled against his uncle, King Cunipert of the Lombards, around 700 AD. While Grimoald initially succeeded in usurping the throne with the support of the Bavarians, his reign was short-lived. Cunipert, with the support of other Lombard dukes, eventually defeated and killed Grimoald.

Another significant figure was Grimoald the Elder, son of Pepin of Landen and Ito. He served as Mayor of the Palace of Austrasia in the 7th century. Grimoald was a powerful figure who effectively ruled the Frankish kingdom during the reigns of Merovingian kings. He is known for his ambition and for attempting to place his own son, Childebert the Adopted, on the throne. This attempt ultimately failed, and Grimoald was eventually imprisoned and executed. His actions, however, contributed to the rise of the Carolingian dynasty.

There were other individuals named Grimoald in various European noble families throughout the early medieval period, often holding ducal or comital titles. Their significance usually relates to their involvement in regional politics, alliances, and military campaigns within their respective territories. The name Grimoald itself is of Germanic origin, often associated with words meaning "powerful in counsel" or "bright oath."