Antiochus III of Commagene

Who was Antiochus III of Commagene?

Antiochus III Epiphanes was the ruler of the Kingdom of Commagene from 12 BC to 17 AD. He was the son and successor of King Mithridates III of Commagene and Princess of Media and Queen of Commagene, Iotapa, and of mixed Armenian, Greek and Median descent. His parents were first cousins.

When Antiochus died in 17 AD, his death created major issues for the kingdom. At the time of Antiochus’ death, Commagene was in political turmoil. The reasons for this situation are unclear, however it may have been the result of his children by his sister-wife Queen Iotapa, Antiochus and Iotapa being too young to succeed their father. This may have meant that there was no effective authority to prevent civil unrest and unite the citizens of Commagene.

Very little is known on his life and his reign as King. After Antiochus' death, two factions appeared. One faction was led by noblemen who wanted Commagene to be placed under the rule of the Roman Empire and the other faction was led by citizens who wanted to Commagene's independence to be retained under the rule of their own king.