Antiochus I Soter was the second ruler of the Seleucid Empire. He ruled from 281 BC until his death in 261 BC. He was the son of Seleucus I Nicator, the founder of the Seleucid dynasty, and he succeeded his father as king.
Antiochus I was known for his military campaigns, including his victories against the Galatians and the Parthians. He also expanded the Seleucid Empire’s territory through conquest and diplomacy, and he is credited with the establishment of several new cities.
According to historical accounts, in 278 BC, the Gauls invaded Anatolia, and Antiochus was able to achieve a significant victory against them using Indian war elephants in 275 BC. It is believed that this triumph earned him the title of Soter, meaning “savior” in Greek.
This Seleucid king was a patron of the arts and architecture. He was also known for commissioning numerous impressive buildings and monuments throughout his realm.
After succumbing to injuries sustained during military campaign against the Galatians in 261 BC, Antiochus passed away at approximately 63 years of age. His 25-year-old son, Antiochus II, inherited the kingdom and eventually gained the unassuming moniker “Antiochus Theos” (meaning “Antiochus the God”) after expelling a Ptolemaic garrison from Miletos.