Phraates (son of Phraates IV)

Phraates, son of Phraates IV, was a prince of the Parthian Empire, the son of King Phraates IV (r. c. 37–2 BC) and his Italian slave-girl queen, Musa.

Phraates was sent to Rome as a hostage in 10/9 BC by his father as part of a diplomatic agreement with Emperor Augustus. This act served to secure the peace between Parthia and Rome and demonstrated Phraates IV's willingness to appease Roman interests. The prince's presence in Rome also ensured the loyalty of the Parthian nobility, as they would be less inclined to rebel against Phraates IV knowing his heir was in Roman custody.

While in Rome, Phraates lived in relative luxury and adopted Roman customs. His stay likely provided the Romans with valuable insight into the Parthian court and political dynamics.

Phraates did not succeed to the Parthian throne. His mother, Musa, colluded with her son, Phraataces (Phraates V), to assassinate Phraates IV around 2 BC. Phraataces then became king, ruling with Musa as co-ruler.