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Gyges

Type Figure Region Anatolia Time c. -687–-652 Also known as Gyges、Guges、Gygès

Gyges was the founding monarch of the Mermnad dynasty of Lydia. According to Herodotus, he killed Candaules, the last Heraclid king, and seized the t…

Timeline

  1. c. -687Sardis · LydiaGyges killed Candaules and made himself king, ending the Heraclid dynasty and establishing the Mermnad dynasty, becoming the founder of Lydia's new royal line.
  2. c. -687–-652Sardis · LydiaGyges reigned for nearly forty years, consolidating Lydian royal power, warring with the Greek city-state of Miletus, and, according to legend, dedicating lavish offerings at the temple of Delphi. Lydia's strength increased markedly under his rule.

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