Phila (daughter of Seleucus)

Phila (c. 321 BC – 287 BC) was a Greek Macedonian noblewoman. She was the daughter of Seleucus I Nicator, founder of the Seleucid Empire, and his first wife Apama. Phila was a prominent figure during the early Hellenistic period.

In 302 BC, she was given in marriage to Demetrius I Poliorcetes, son of Antigonus I Monophthalmus, as part of a peace agreement between Seleucus and Antigonus. Despite the significant age difference – Demetrius was much younger – the marriage was politically advantageous for both parties, solidifying the alliance against their rivals. Phila was known for her intelligence, diplomacy, and beauty, and she became a respected figure in the Antigonid court.

Phila bore Demetrius two children: Stratonice, who later married Seleucus's son Antiochus I Soter, and a son, Antigonus II Gonatas, who eventually became King of Macedon.

Following the defeat of Antigonus I at the Battle of Ipsus in 301 BC, Phila remained loyal to her husband Demetrius, even when his fortunes declined. She played a crucial role in mediating between Demetrius and his rivals. When Demetrius was eventually captured by Seleucus in 286 BC, Phila was deeply affected. She is said to have taken her own life in Cassandreia in 287 BC, reportedly due to the distress caused by Demetrius' imprisonment and the uncertainty of their future. Phila's death was considered a great loss, and she was remembered for her loyalty and her contributions to the political landscape of the era.