Even if you are not a history buff, the name Attila the Hun will probably sound familiar. The leader of the Huns earned his fame for his military abilities, being one of the most feared enemies of the Roman Empire in the 5th century AD. If you want to know more about Attila the Hun and why he is such an important historical figure, check out some facts about him that you probably didn’t know.
Attila Was Well Educated
While the Huns are usually depicted as barbarians, Attila was actually well-educated. He was from a noble family and received extensive military training during his youth. He was also proficient in Gothic and Latin.
Attila Once Negotiated Peace With the Eastern Roman Empire
Despite often being engaged in wars and battles, Attila also had a diplomatic side to him. He once negotiated peace with Eastern Roman Empire in exchange for 700 pounds of gold on an annual basis. However, the treaty was short-lived, as Attila claimed Romans violated the terms a few years later and returned to his warrior ways.
Attila Killed His Brother
Attila initially ruled the Hunnic Empire alongside his brother Bleda. However, Bleda was killed in 445 AD, allowing Attila to get all the power over the empire’s territories. According to Roman historians, it was Attila who was responsible for Bleda’s death.
Attila Died on His Wedding Night
Many people don’t know that Attila didn’t die in a battle. Instead, he died on his wedding night. It appears that Attila suffered a severe nosebleed after a night of heavy drinking and choked on his own blood.
Attila’s Burial Site Remains a Mystery
No one knows where Attila’s resting place is. It is believed that his close confidants killed the servants who buried their leader so they wouldn’t reveal the secret to the enemies of the Huns. Some experts believe Attila was buried somewhere in Hungary.