Heremigarius facts for kids

Heremigarius (also known as Hermigarius or Hermegarius) was a military leader from the Suevi people. He was active around the years 427 to 428. He led his forces in a region called Lusitania, which is now mostly modern-day Portugal and parts of Spain.

Some historians think Heremigarius might have ruled alongside another leader named Hermeric, or perhaps he took over after him. However, old writings from that time don't clearly say this. A writer named Fredegar, who lived later in the 600s, called Heremigarius the "king of the Suevi."

Heremigarius's Actions and Defeat

A writer named Hydatius, who lived at the same time as Heremigarius, wrote about his actions. Heremigarius attacked cities like Seville and Mérida. These cities were controlled by the Vandals, another powerful group.

The Battle of Mérida

Heremigarius also caused some trouble at the Basilica of Saint Eulalia in Mérida. He was later defeated in a battle near Mérida by the Vandal king, Geiseric. During his retreat, Heremigarius drowned in the Ana River. Hydatius wrote that he was "cast down in the river Ana by the arm of God," meaning he was defeated and drowned as a result of his actions.

Family Connections

More recently, a historian named Casimiro Torres suggested that Heremigarius was the father of Ricimer. Ricimer later became a very powerful general in the Roman Empire.

Heremigarius has also been linked to a woman named Ermengon. She was buried in a special tomb in the city of Hippo Regius, which was the capital of the Vandals. She was a wealthy Suevic noblewoman who was part of the Vandal upper class. She might have been a relative of Heremigarius.