Around 750-751, the Lombards conquered the Byzantine possessions in central Italy - the Duchy of Ferrara, and then the lands of the Exarchate in a narrow sense (including Ravenna), and the Duchy of Pentapolis. The sources provide a clear picture of the efforts undertaken by King Aistulf to quickly integrate the Roman population living in these areas. One aspect of the integration policy was a series of laws promulgated immediately after the conquest and, given the context, clearly relating to the lands of the Exarchate. Aistulf imposed military service on the Roman population on similar terms as the Lombards. The legislation also enforced severe restrictions on trade and general contacts with Byzantine possessions in Italy, forcing the conquered population to redirect their economic activity towards the Lombards. At the same time, the ruler tried to maintain the favor of the bishop of Ravenna, the main authority in the conquered area, through gifts and building activity.