The origins of the Monza Cathedral are closely linked to the figure of Theodolinda, a Bavarian princess of the Catholic faith who married Authari, King of the Longobards, in May of 589. After his death in September of 590, she married Agilulf, Duke of Turin, who was called to succeed him on the throne.
Having chosen Monza as her preferred residence, according to historical sources, Theodolinda is said to have built a palace and a chapel there around 595-600 in honor of Saint John the Baptist. This chapel was later transformed into the eponymous basilica, initially also serving as a royal mausoleum. Kings Agilulf (in 616), his son Adaloaldo (in 626), and Theodolinda herself (in 627) were buried there. She passed away after 28 years of reign, spending the first part of her time as queen and later, after the death of her second husband, serving as regent for her underage son.
