Antinous

Antinous was a Greek youth from Bithynia who became the beloved companion and lover of the Roman emperor Hadrian. Born around 111 AD, Antinous met Hadrian when the emperor was traveling through his homeland. Hadrian was captivated by Antinous's beauty and intelligence and took him into his imperial retinue. Their relationship was deeply personal and openly acknowledged by Hadrian. Antinous accompanied Hadrian on many of his extensive travels throughout the Roman Empire.

The most significant event in Antinous's life, and the one that cemented his historical legacy, was his death. In 130 AD, while on a journey in Egypt, Antinous drowned in the Nile River under mysterious circumstances. Some accounts suggest it was an accident, while others hint at a deliberate sacrifice, possibly to save Hadrian's life through astrological prophecy. Hadrian was utterly devastated by Antinous's death.

In his grief, Hadrian deified Antinous, a rare honor for someone not of imperial blood or a Roman deity. He founded cities named Antinoopolis in his memory, notably in Egypt, and commissioned numerous statues and busts of his beloved. Antinous became a subject of widespread cult worship throughout the Roman world, with temples and festivals dedicated to him. His image, often depicted as a youthful god with distinctive curly hair and a melancholic expression, became a prominent feature of Roman art and sculpture, continuing to be admired for its aesthetic beauty.