Arganthonios facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Arganthonios |
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|---|---|
| King of Tartessos | |
| Reign | 625 BC – 545 BC |
| Predecessor | Habis |
| Born | c. 665 BC Tartessos, Hispania |
| Died | c. 545 BC (aged 120?) Tartessos, Hispania |
Arganthonios (Greek: Ἀργανθώνιος) was a famous king of ancient Tartessos. This kingdom was located in what is now Andalusia, in southern Spain. He is known as one of the earliest kings of the Iberian Peninsula that we have historical records for.
Contents
Life of King Arganthonios
A Long Reign and Life
The Greek historian Herodotus wrote about King Arganthonios. He said the king ruled Tartessos for 80 years. This was from about 625 BC to 545 BC. Herodotus also claimed that Arganthonios lived to be 120 years old. Some people even thought he lived to 150!
This incredibly long life and reign might mean something else. It could be that several kings used the same name. Or perhaps it was a title passed down.
Welcoming the Greeks
Herodotus tells us that King Arganthonios was very friendly. He welcomed the first Greeks who sailed to Iberia. These Greeks were from a city called Phocaea. The king even encouraged them to settle in his land.
Later, Arganthonios heard that the Medes were becoming powerful. The Medes were a threat to the Phocaeans. So, King Arganthonios gave the Phocaeans a lot of money. He wanted them to build a strong wall around their city. Herodotus noted that the king "must have given with a bountiful hand." This shows how generous he was.
The Name Arganthonios
Meaning of the Name
The language of Tartessos is not well known. Because of this, the exact meaning of "Arganthonios" is a bit of a mystery. However, historians have noticed something interesting. The name sounds a lot like old Celtic names.
The word "Arganthonios" seems to come from an ancient word. This word meant 'silver' or 'money'. Tartessos was a very rich place. It had a lot of silver, just like other parts of Iberia.
Similar Names in History
You can find similar names in old Roman writings. For example, names like Argantoni appeared in areas where Tartessos once was. Another name, Argantoda(nos), was found on silver coins. This name might have meant "treasurer" or someone in charge of money.
See also
In Spanish: Argantonio para niños
- Carpia
- Tartessian language
- Spanish mythology
