childeri

Childeri, also known as Childeric, was a Germanic king of the Salian Franks. He reigned in the latter half of the 5th century AD, a period marked by the decline of Roman authority in Gaul and the rise of various Germanic kingdoms. Information about Childeri's life and reign is primarily derived from the writings of Gregory of Tours, a 6th-century bishop and historian.

Childeri was the son of Merovech, a figure whose historical existence is debated but who is considered the eponymous ancestor of the Merovingian dynasty. Childeri's reign is associated with the establishment of Frankish power in the region of Tournai, in modern-day Belgium. He is believed to have fought against other Germanic tribes and possibly against remnants of Roman forces or their allies.

One of the most significant discoveries related to Childeri was the unearthing of his tomb in Tournai in 1653. This tomb contained a wealth of grave goods, including gold objects, jewelry, and a famous seal ring bearing the inscription "Childerici Regis." The presence of these artifacts, along with Roman coins and military equipment, provided valuable insights into the wealth, status, and cultural influences of the Frankish elite during this transitional period. The seal ring, in particular, is considered a key piece of evidence for his identity and royal status. The treasures from Childeri's tomb are now housed in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna.