Roman & Late Antiquity
Ptolemy of Mauretania
Roman / Late Antiquity
Leaders & StatesmenRoman client kingdom (1st c. AD)Oran / West
Emperor Caligula reportedly had him executed for wearing a too-splendid purple cloak.
Historical significance
He is the last king of Mauretania; his death triggered the kingdom's annexation by Rome.
Their story
Son of Juba II and Cleopatra Selene, Ptolemy inherited a Mauretanian throne shaped by both Numidian and Mediterranean worlds. He ruled from Caesarea, minted his own coins and cultivated the arts, until a jealous Roman emperor summoned him and had him killed.
Did you know?
Emperor Caligula reportedly had him executed for wearing a too-splendid purple cloak.