Norman Conquest of Southern Italy

The Norman Conquest of Southern Italy occurred during the 11th century when Normans, originally from France, began to invade and settle in the region. They took advantage of political instability and fought against local rulers, including Byzantines and Muslim forces. Led by figures like Robert Guiscard, the Normans established control over much of Southern Italy, creating a network of territories. This conquest not only altered the political landscape but also influenced culture, architecture, and governance in the region, ultimately leading to the formation of the Kingdom of Sicily by the late 12th century.