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Theodor Rshtuni
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Theodor Rshtuni

Armenian governor
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Theodor Rshtuni was an Armenian governor (ostikan) who played a significant role in the defense of Armenia against Arab incursions in the 7th century CE. He was a prominent figure among the Armenian nobility (nakharar) and was appointed commander-in-chief of the Armenian army by the Byzantine emperor Constans II.1

In 653 CE, following a truce with the Arab governor of Syria, Mu'awiyah, Constans II voluntarily ceded Armenia to the Arabs. This arrangement granted Armenia virtual autonomy, with Theodor Rshtuni appointed as its governor. Rshtuni's leadership was crucial during a period of shifting allegiances and external pressures, as Armenia navigated its relationship with both the Byzantine Empire and the expanding Arab caliphate.1

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. Urartu
  2. Armenia - The marzpān s of Armenia
  3. Armenia - The Mamikonians and Bagratids

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