Head of Philip the Arab at The Faculty of Classics, Cambridge

myminifactory

Marcus Julius Philippus seized power in 244 as Roman Emperor and ruled until his demise in 249. Born in the Roman province of Arabia, now modern-day Syria, he rose to prominence within the Roman Empire. Following the death of Gordian III, Philippus swiftly negotiated a peace treaty with the Sassanid Empire. During his reign, Rome commemorated its millennium. Early Christian writers perceived Philippus as sympathetic to their faith. Some even claimed that he had converted to Christianity, potentially making him history's first Christian emperor. According to legend, Philippus attempted to join Easter celebrations in Antioch alongside Christians, but was rebuked by Bishop Babylas and forced to stand with penitents. Notably, Philippus received correspondence from Origen. Decius eventually led a rebellion that toppled Philippus from power, resulting in his demise.