People > Hiero II of Syracuse

Hiero II of Syracuse

Background

Hiero II of Syracuse (c. 308 – 215 BCE) was a prominent Greek general and ruler who served as the tyrant and later king of Syracuse. His reign is notable for its longevity, relative stability, and prosperity. Hiero II is often remembered for his effective governance, military prowess, and diplomatic skills, which allowed him to navigate the complex political landscape of his time.

Early Life and Rise to Power:

• Background: Hiero II was born around 308 BCE into a noble family. He initially served as a general under Pyrrhus of Epirus during his campaign in Sicily.
• Rise to Power: Following the departure of Pyrrhus, Syracuse experienced political turmoil. Hiero leveraged his military reputation and popular support to become the commander of the city’s forces. In 275 BCE, after defeating the Mamertines (mercenaries who had seized control of parts of Sicily), he was proclaimed tyrant of Syracuse.

Reign:

• Military and Political Consolidation: Hiero II spent the early part of his reign consolidating his power and securing Syracuse’s territories. He successfully defended the city against external threats and subdued rebellious cities within Sicily.
• Title of King: In recognition of his leadership and achievements, Hiero adopted the title of king around 269 BCE, formalizing his rule and establishing a monarchy in Syracuse.

Relations with Rome and Carthage:

• First Punic War: During the First Punic War (264–241 BCE), Hiero initially allied with Carthage but switched his allegiance to Rome after realizing the growing power of the Roman Republic. In 263 BCE, he concluded a peace treaty with Rome, becoming a loyal ally and providing crucial support to the Roman war effort.
• Peace and Prosperity: The alliance with Rome brought peace and stability to Syracuse. Hiero II focused on economic development, building infrastructure, and improving the city’s defenses. His reign saw significant prosperity, with advancements in agriculture, trade, and public works.

Contributions and Achievements:

• Public Works and Infrastructure: Hiero II invested heavily in the construction of temples, theaters, and public buildings. He also improved the city’s fortifications and built aqueducts and harbors, contributing to Syracuse’s economic growth and urban development.
• Agricultural Reforms: Hiero implemented reforms to enhance agricultural productivity. His efforts in land management and irrigation helped boost food production, ensuring the prosperity of his kingdom.
• Cultural Patronage: Hiero was a patron of the arts and sciences. He supported various scholars and engineers, including the famous mathematician and inventor Archimedes, who made significant contributions to mathematics, physics, and engineering under Hiero’s patronage.

Legacy:

• Longevity and Stability: Hiero II’s reign, lasting over 50 years, is remarkable for its duration and the stability he maintained in Syracuse. His effective governance and diplomatic skills ensured the city’s prosperity and security during a turbulent period in Mediterranean history.
• Diplomatic Relations: Hiero’s strategic alliance with Rome laid the foundation for Syracuse’s favorable treatment within the Roman sphere of influence. His diplomatic acumen helped preserve the city’s autonomy and prosperity.
• Cultural and Scientific Contributions: The cultural and scientific advancements during Hiero’s reign, particularly those associated with Archimedes, left a lasting impact on the intellectual heritage of the ancient world.

Death and Succession:

• Death: Hiero II died in 215 BCE, shortly after the outbreak of the Second Punic War. His death marked the end of an era of stability and prosperity for Syracuse.
• Succession: Hiero was succeeded by his grandson, Hieronymus, whose brief and tumultuous reign ultimately led to Syracuse’s downfall and its incorporation into the Roman Republic.

Hiero II of Syracuse is remembered as one of the most effective and enlightened rulers of the Hellenistic period. His leadership brought peace, prosperity, and cultural flourishing to Syracuse, making his reign a high point in the city’s history.

Sources

"The Rise of Hiero" from Polybius, Histories at Perseus

"Hiero and Rome" from Polybius, Histories at Perseus

Polybius i. 8–16; Zonaras Viii. 9

Livy xxi. 49–51, xxii. 37, xxiii. 21

De architectura IX.9...12

Diod. Sic. xxii. 24-xxvi. 24; Polybius i. 8-vu. 7; Justin xxiii. 4.

Chisholm, Hugh, ed. (1911). Encyclopædia Britannica (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press.