Natakamani

Kushite King NatakamaniStatue of Natakamani, Argo Island, Tabo Temple, c. 60 CEKushite King of MeroëReignMiddle 1st centuryCoregencyAmanitore (mother)PredecessorAmanikhabale (?)SuccessorShorkarorRoyal titulary Natakamani, also called Aqrakamani, was a king of Kush who reigned from Meroë in the middle of the 1st century CE. He ruled as co-regent together with his mother Amanitore. Natakamani is the best attested ruler of the Meroitic period. He and Amanitore may have been contemporaries of the Roman emperor Nero. Monumental remains Natakamani is known from several temple buildings and from his pyramid in Meroe. He is also known for restoring the temple of Amun, as well as his dedication of the temple at Faras. On several monuments Natakamani appears together with his co-regent, Queen Amanitore. The only one of the two explicitly titled as ruler (qore) is Natakamani, with Amanitore being titled only as kandake (queen consort/mother). They are however clearly depicted as co-rulers with equal power given that both are shown with the regalia and attire of kings. Neither Natakamani nor Amanitore are ever attested to have ruled on their own without the other. Surviving inscriptions do n