ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

The Year 116 BC: A Year of Transition and Power Struggles

The year 116 BC was a pivotal moment in ancient history, marked by significant events that would shape the course of empires and dynasties. In Egypt, following the death of Ptolemy VIII Physcon, Cleopatra III sought to secure her position as regent for her younger son Ptolemy X Alexander. However, her mother Cleopatra II intervened, preventing this arrangement from coming to fruition.

Instead, Ptolemy IX Filometor Soter II was proclaimed king of Egypt, claiming the throne and asserting his authority over the kingdom. This move would have far-reaching consequences for the region, as it marked a shift in power dynamics between the various claimants vying for control.

Meanwhile, in Rome, the Consulate of Quintus Fabius Maximus Eburnus and Caius Licinius Geta began on August 25, 117 BC (January 638 of the Roman calendar). This period also saw the death of Ptolemy Evergetus, king of Egypt, which marked the end of the Lagide Empire's unit. The throne was subsequently claimed by Ptolemy Apion, a natural son of Ptolemy Évergete.

In Asia Minor, the kingdom of Cappadocia witnessed significant upheaval as Ariarat VI was killed by noble Gordius, who likely acted out of revenge against Mitridat VI. This event led to the ascension of minor Ariarat VII with his regent mother Laodika on the throne.

The year 116 BC also saw notable births among Roman scholars and politicians. Mark Terenceus Varro, a renowned Roman scholar and writer, was born during this period, as were Mark Terence Varon Lucullus, a prominent politician and warlord, and Gaius Aquilius Gallus, a Roman lawyer.

The death of Cleopatra II on June 28 marked the end of an era in Egypt's royal family. Her passing paved the way for Ptolemy Alexander to rule Cyprus, while Ptolemy Apion was entrusted with Kirenaika.

In Numidia, Adherbal, an exiled king, sought refuge in Rome, where he was accepted by the Senate and received ambassadors from his rival Yugurta. Despite receiving bribes from some Roman patricians, Yugurta avoided being removed from