Atossa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Atossa |
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Tomb of Darius the Great, where Atossa was also buried
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| Queen mother of the Achaemenid Empire | |
| Tenure | 486–476 BC |
| Coronation | 486 BC |
| Successor | Amestris |
| Queen consort of the Achaemenid Empire | |
| Tenure | 520–486 BC |
| Coronation | 520 BC |
| Predecessor | Cassandane |
| Successor | Amestris |
| Born | c. 550 BC |
| Died | 475 BC |
| Burial | Naqsh-e Rostam |
| Spouse | Darius the Great |
| Issue | Xerxes I Hystaspes Masistes Achaemenes |
| House | Achaemenid |
| Father | Cyrus the Great |
| Mother | Cassandane |
| Religion | Zoroastrianism |
Atossa (born around 550 BC, died 475 BC) was a very important empress of the Achaemenid Empire. She was the daughter of Cyrus the Great, who founded the Persian Empire. Later, she became a wife of Darius I, one of the most powerful Persian kings.
Atossa was known for her influence and power within the royal family. She played a key role in making sure her son, Xerxes I, became the next king after Darius.
What's in a Name?
The name "Atossa" comes from Old Persian. It means something like "giving many gifts" or "well-granting."
In ancient Greek, her name was written as Ἄτοσσα. This is how we get the name "Atossa" today.
Her Life and Influence
Atossa was born around 550 BC. She was the oldest daughter of Cyrus the Great. Her mother was likely Cassandane.
After her father Cyrus died, some ancient Greek writers say Atossa married her brother, Cambyses II. However, historians are not fully sure how accurate these stories are. Other historical records suggest different wives for Cambyses.
When Darius I became king in 522 BC, he married Atossa. This marriage was very important. Atossa was a direct descendant of Cyrus the Great. This connection gave Darius's rule more strength and support.
Atossa had a lot of power and respect in the royal family. She and Darius had several sons. Their most famous son was Xerxes I.
The Greek historian Herodotus wrote about Atossa in his book, The Histories. He mentioned that Atossa had a medical issue with her breast. A Greek doctor, Democedes, helped her. This is one of the earliest recorded stories of someone getting help for a breast problem.
Atossa lived long enough to see her son, Xerxes, become king. She also saw him lead a huge invasion of Greece. Her special position and influence helped Xerxes become the next ruler, even though he was not Darius's oldest son.
Her Legacy
Atossa's name is still remembered today.
- A small planet, 810 Atossa, is named after her. It was discovered by Max Wolf.
- The poet Matthew Arnold named his cat "Atossa." He wrote about her in his 1882 poem called ‘Poor Matthias.’
See also
In Spanish: Atosa para niños
