Patraus (Ancient Greek: Πατράος, romanized: Patráos) was king of the ancient kingdom of Paeonia from around 335 until his death in 315 BC.[1] Patraus' relationship with the previous Paeonian king, Lyppeius, is unknown, as are the circumstances surrounding his ascension.[2] Aside from the silver coinage struck in his name, we know nothing for certain about the events of Patraus' reign.[3]
| Patraus | |
|---|---|
 Silver tetradrachm struck sometime during Patraus' reign. Obv.: laureate head of Apollo facing right; rev.: horseman spearing enemy warrior | |
| King of Paeonia | |
| Reign | c. 335–315 BC |
| Predecessor | Lyppeius |
| Successor | Audoleon |
| Born | ? |
| Died | 315 BC |
| Spouse | unknown |
| Issue | Audoleon |
| Religion | Ancient Greek religion |
Paeonia was made a Macedonian vassal in 356 during the course of Philip II of Macedon's Balkan campaigns.[4] Although they retained their territory and the right to mint coins, the Paeonians were expected to provide both tribute and manpower for Macedonian military campaigns.[5] Consequently, around 150 cavalrymen, commanded by Ariston, crossed with Alexander III's army into Asia Minor in 334.[3] Ariston may have been a member of the Paeonian ruling house, possibly Patraus' brother, but this is only speculation.[5] Patraus died sometime in 315 and was succeeded by Audoleon.
References
editCitations
edit- ^ Wright, Nicholas (2012). "The Horseman and the Warrior: Paionia and Macedonia in the Fourth Century BC". The Numismatic Chronicle. 172: 1–26 – via JSTOR.
- ^ Merker, Irwin (1965). "The ancient kingdom of Paionia". Balkan Studies. 6 (1): 35–54.
- ^ a b Wright 2012, pp. 2-3
- ^ Hammond, N.G.L.; Griffith, G.T. (1979). A History of Macedonia Volume II: 550-336 B.C. Oxford: Clarendon Press. p. 672. ISBN 9780198148142.
- ^ a b Merker 1965, pp. 44-45