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With the Byzantines unable to maintain control, the Lombards fragmented Italy further, giving rise to independent kingdoms. As Europe progressed into the Middle Ages, the rise of the Papal States, aided by Charlemagne, redefined the political landscape of Italy.
The Late Middle Ages saw a resurgence in economic activity as maritime city-states like Venice and Genoa excelled in trade, shipbuilding, and manufacturing, capitalizing on Italy's strategic location.