Epigraphic Stratigraphy: is There Any Trace of the Ostrogoths in Early Medieval “Layers” (6th-9th Century)?

The short but significant experiment of the Ostrogothic Kingdom in Italy left politically ephemeral albeit culturally surprisingly durable traces peninsula. Among them, epigraphy takes centre stage when discussing decrees, laws, and public documents, which are a direct expression rulers’ will to gain greater visibility disseminate their voice. However, is also crucial knowing names, professions, ideas, other concepts relating ordinary people. This contribution aims examine number issues concerning controversial Germanic names datable between VIth VIIth century AD, variably assigned Ostrogoths, Lombards, even Carolingians characters; through lens these materials, – ironically enough monuments both recording contemporary propaganda everyday life facets, article explore graphic epigraphic changes occurred VIth-IXth centuries.