Pythodoris II facts for kids
Pythodoris II (pronounced Pith-oh-DOR-iss the Second) was a queen who ruled the ancient land of Thrace from about 38 AD to 46 AD. She was a "client ruler," which means she governed Thrace but under the strong influence and control of the powerful Roman Empire. She ruled alongside her cousin, Rhoemetalces III.
Pythodoris II followed in the footsteps of her mother, Antonia Tryphaena, and her brother, Rhoemetalces II, who had ruled before her. Her father was Cotys VIII, a former king of Thrace. She was given her name to honor her grandmothers and grandparents.
Ruling Thrace with Rome
Thrace was an important kingdom located in what is now parts of modern-day Bulgaria, Greece, and Turkey. It was a client kingdom of Rome, meaning it was allowed to have its own rulers but had to follow Rome's lead.
How Pythodoris Became Queen
In 38 AD, Pythodoris's brother, Rhoemetalces II, passed away. After his death, her mother, Tryphaena, decided to step down from the throne. This happened at the request of the Roman emperor at the time, Caligula.
Emperor Caligula then chose Rhoemetalces III to become the new king of Thrace. Rhoemetalces III's father, Rhescuporis II, had previously caused trouble for Pythodoris's own father, Cotys VIII. To try and heal these old family disagreements, Emperor Caligula and Tryphaena arranged for Pythodoris to marry Rhoemetalces III.
Their Time as Rulers
Pythodoris II and Rhoemetalces III ruled Thrace together as client rulers from 38 AD until 46 AD. During this time, they managed the kingdom under Roman authority.
However, their joint rule came to an end in 46 AD when Rhoemetalces III died. After this, the exact story of Pythodoris II is not fully known. It seems she did not have any children with her cousin.
Pythodoris and Rhoemetalces III were the very last monarchs to rule Thrace as an independent kingdom. After their reign, the Roman Empire decided to take full control. Under the next Roman emperor, Claudius, the kingdom of Thrace officially became a Roman province. This meant it was directly governed by Rome, just like other parts of the Roman Empire.
