Alpín I of the Picts facts for kids

Alpín was a king of the Picts, an ancient people who lived in what is now Scotland. He ruled alongside another king, Drest, from 726 to 728. Old records, like the Pictish Chronicle, say they ruled together for five years.

Alpín: King of the Picts

How Alpín Became King

In 724, King Nechtan mac Der-Ilei decided to give up his throne. He chose to enter a monastery. Drest became the new king of the Picts. Alpín was not mentioned in the records at this time.

However, things changed in 726. The Annals of Tigernach, which are historical records, reported a big event. It said that "Drest was cast from the kingdom of the Picts." This means Drest was removed from power. The records then state that "Alpín reigned in his stead," meaning Alpín became king.

The War in Pictland

From 728 to 729, a war took place in Pictland. This war involved Alpín, Drest, Nechtan, and another powerful figure, Óengus. It seems Alpín was the first to fight against Nechtan and Óengus.

Alpín was first defeated by Óengus at a place called Monaidh Craeb. Some historians think this might be Monicrieffe, near Perth. During this battle, Alpín's son was killed. Alpín suffered a second defeat, which forced him to flee. After this, Nechtan was made king again. Drest was killed the next year. What happened to Alpín after his flight is not clearly known from the historical records.

What We Don't Know

Historians are not sure if this Alpín is connected to other people mentioned in old texts. For example, the Annals of Ulster mention an "Elffin son of Crup" who was attacked in 742. It is not known if this is the same Alpín.

It is also unclear if this Alpín is related to Alpín mac Echdach. Alpín mac Echdach may have ruled in Dál Riata in the 730s. These connections are still a mystery to historians.