← Explore on the interactive map

Leontios

Type Figure Region Byzantine Empire Time c. 660–706 Also known as 利昂提乌斯、Leontios、Leontius、Λεόντιος

Byzantine emperor, born around 660, executed in 706. Originally a general, he seized power in a coup in 695, overthrowing Justinian II and proclaimin…

Timeline

  1. c. 680–695Constantinople · ConstantinopleHe rose through the ranks of the army and took part in campaigns against the Arabs. In 695, dissatisfied with Justinian II's tyranny and failed policies, he joined forces with the Greens in a coup, deposing the emperor, cutting off his nose, and exiling him to Crimea.
  2. 695–698Constantinople · ConstantinopleAfter proclaiming himself emperor he adopted a new era name, facing military setbacks including the Arab capture of Carthage (697) and Bulgarian invasions. In 698 he sent John the Primicerius with a fleet to recover North Africa, but it was a disastrous defeat near Carthage, provoking discontent at home.
  3. 698–706Constantinople · ConstantinopleIn 698 he was overthrown by the naval commander Apsimar, his nose cut off and imprisoned. After Justinian II was restored in 705, Leontios and Tiberius III were publicly executed in the hippodrome, ending an episode in the turbulent imperial succession of late Byzantium.

Sources