Eskender, Emperor of Ethiopia (b. 1471)
Eskender (Ge'ez: እስክንድር; born 15 July 1471 – died 7 May 1494) served as Emperor of Ethiopia and bore the throne name Kwestantinos II (Ge’ez: ቈስታንቲኖስ, meaning "Constantine"). He was a member of the prestigious Solomonic dynasty, which claimed direct descent from the biblical King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba—a lineage long considered central to the legitimacy of Ethiopian monarchs. Eskender was the son of Emperor Baeda Maryam I and Empress Romna, placing him in a line of rulers deeply entrenched in Ethiopian tradition and Christian monarchic heritage.
Ascending the throne in the late 15th century, Eskender ruled during a period marked by both internal power struggles and increasing foreign interest in Ethiopia. His court witnessed a notable presence of Italian expatriates—a reflection of the growing ties and curiosity between Ethiopia and the distant European powers. Interestingly, historical accounts note that Eskender never permitted these Italian visitors to leave once they had entered his realm. As a result, his court gradually included a small but significant community of Italians who contributed to the cultural and political intrigue of his reign. The reasons for this policy are debated: some historians suggest it was a means of preserving their knowledge and skills within the empire, especially in matters of craft, warfare, or administration; others view it as a strategy to prevent sensitive information about the kingdom from reaching European rivals.
Eskender’s relatively short reign ended with his untimely death at just 22 years old, leading to a period of political uncertainty and transitions that would shape the future of the Ethiopian Empire.
Who were Eskender's parents?
Eskender was the son of Emperor Baeda Maryam I and Empress Romna, members of Ethiopia’s long-standing Solomonic dynasty.
Why were there Italian expatriates in Eskender’s court?
Italian visitors were not allowed to return home after arriving in Ethiopia. This policy led to the formation of a small but permanent Italian enclave at Eskender’s court. It is believed they were kept for their skills or to prevent the leakage of information abroad.
What is significant about Eskender’s throne name, Kwestantinos II?
The name “Kwestantinos,” or "Constantine," reflects a symbolic connection to Christian emperorship, drawing on the Roman Emperor Constantine who famously supported the spread of Christianity—an important association in a historically Orthodox Christian empire like Ethiopia.
What dynasty did Eskender belong to?
He was part of the Solomonic dynasty, which claimed descent from King Solomon of Israel and the Queen of Sheba, central figures in Ethiopian royal ideology.
How old was Eskender when he died?
Eskender died at the age of 22 on 7 May 1494.