Short Biography
about the life of Priscus Attalus
Short Biography profile and facts about one of the most famous Romans of all, in the life of
Priscus Attalus, usurper of the Western Roman Empire
Interesting facts
about the life of Priscus Attalus
Obtain a fast overview of the times of the Roman Emperor
Priscus Attalus from the following facts and information about his life.
Priscus Attalus was a Greek who became twice Roman usurper
(in 409 and in 414), against Emperor Honorius. The family of
Priscus Attalus had moved
to Italy under Valentinian I. Priscus Attalus was a senator in Rome, who served as Prefectus urbi in 409. Prefectus urbi
meant the prefect of the city of Rome with all the powers
needed to maintain order within the city. Priscus Attalus twice proclaimed emperor by the Visigoths
twice, in order
to impose their terms on the weak Emperor Honorius who
resided
in Ravenna.
He held the title of emperor in Rome, during 409, and again
in Bordeaux in 414. His two reigns ended when he was abandoned by the Visigoths.
Priscus Attalus was eventually
captured by troops who were loyal to the Emperor Honorius.
His capture led to deep humiliation when he was forced to
participate in the triumph celebrated by Honorius in Rome in 416.
Honorius banished him to Lipara Islands where he died later
that year - the cause of death was unknown. |