Areus I

Areus I (Greek: Ἄρειος) was the King of Sparta from 309 to 265 BC. He belonged to the Agiad dynasty and was the son of Acrotatus and grandson of Cleomenes II. Because Acrotatus predeceased Cleomenes II, Areus I succeeded his grandfather to the throne.

Areus I is most notably remembered for his involvement in the Chremonidean War (267-261 BC). He was a prominent leader of the Greek coalition that opposed Antigonus II Gonatas of Macedon. He actively sought support from various Greek cities and from Ptolemy II Philadelphus of Egypt, hoping to liberate Greece from Macedonian dominance.

His reign saw the rise of Sparta's influence, albeit temporarily, within the Peloponnese. However, his military campaigns were met with mixed success. He led Spartan forces against Macedonian territories and engaged in naval battles, but ultimately the war concluded unfavorably for Sparta and its allies. Areus I was killed in battle near Corinth in 265 BC, during a campaign against Antigonus II Gonatas. His death marked a significant setback for Spartan ambitions in the region. He was succeeded by his son, Acrotatus II.

Beyond his military exploits, Areus I is also known for his interactions with religious and philosophical figures. He is said to have exchanged letters with the Jewish High Priest Onias I, although the authenticity of these letters is debated by historians. He also displayed an interest in philosophical discussions, suggesting a level of intellectual curiosity that was not always typical of Spartan kings.