Teutelinde was a queen of the Lombards who lived in the 6th century AD. She was the wife of King Authari, who ruled from 584 to 590. The Lombards were a Germanic people who migrated to Italy in the 6th century and established a kingdom there.
Teutelinde was known for her piety and devotion to Christianity. She was credited with converting her husband to the Catholic faith, which was a major achievement as the Lombards were previously followers of Arian Christianity, a heretical sect. Her influence on her husband was evident in his actions, such as his donation of land to the Catholic Church and his support of the bishop of Rome.
Teutelinde was also known for her charitable works. She was said to have distributed food and clothing to the poor and the sick, and to have built churches and monasteries. She was a patron of the arts, commissioning illuminated manuscripts and promoting the education of women.
After her husband's death in 590, Teutelinde played a role in the succession of the Lombard throne. She supported the claim of her stepson, Agilulf, over that of her own son, Adaloald, who was too young to rule. Agilulf became king and married Teutelinde, cementing the alliance between the Lombards and the Catholic Church.