The Normans, a group of Viking raiders and traders from Scandinavia, made their mark on southern Italy in the 11th and 12th centuries. They established a kingdom in Sicily and conquered much of the mainland, leaving a lasting legacy in the region. The Normans brought with them their own culture and language, which influenced the local population, and they played a significant role in the development of southern Italy's political and economic landscape. Their rule brought stability and prosperity to the region, and they contributed to the growth of trade and commerce, making southern Italy a vibrant and important part of the Mediterranean world.
