Cypselus

Cypselus (Κύψελος, Kýpselos; /ˈsɪpsələs/), the founder of the Cypselid dynasty, rose to power in Corinth during the mid-7th century BCE. His ascent marked the end of the Iolian Bacchiadae aristocracy's control over Corinth and began a tyranny that would last for three generations, ending with the fall of his grandson, Psammetichus (Psammetichos). The historical accounts of Cypselus are predominantly derived from later sources, most notably the histories of Herodotus, who lived approximately two centuries after Cypselus' rule. These sources provide a narrative that combines historical events with legends and anecdotes that were part of the oral tradition of the time.

Herodotus recounts the rise of Cypselus as having been foretold by an oracle, which warned the Bacchiadae of a child who would overthrow their rule. In response, they attempted to kill him as an infant, but Cypselus' mother hid him in a chest (kypsele), which is how he got his name.

Surviving this early attempt on his life, Cypselus grew to usurp the Bacchiadae, establishing himself as the tyrant of Corinth without shedding blood, according to Herodotus. During his reign, Cypselus focused on enhancing Corinth's economic prosperity. He is credited with fostering trade and strengthening Corinthian dominance in commerce. Under his rule, the city-state's wealth grew significantly, partly due to its strategic location that served as a crossroads between the Greek mainland and the western colonies, as well as its control over the Isthmus of Corinth, which was a critical land bridge between the Peloponnese and mainland Greece.

He was encouraged in his quest for power by the oracle at Delphi. He founded colonies in northwestern Greece, administering them through his natural sons, including his successor, Periander. Though he achieved power through demagoguery, he was reputedly so popular that he did not need a bodyguard.

Ancient sources do not provide detailed descriptions of monumental building projects or other tangible artifacts that could be associated with his reign, but the prosperity of Corinth during the Cypselid tyranny likely contributed to the city's later architectural and cultural developments, which were more prominently realized under his son. One of the few physical legacies that can be associated with the Cypselid dynasty is the Cypselid Chest, mentioned by Pausanias, a travel writer of the 2nd century CE. It was a richly decorated chest said to have been dedicated by Cypselus to Hera at Olympia. Though the chest itself has not survived, Pausanias's description provides insights into the art and symbolism of the time.