jan 1, 861 - Ashot Bagratuni becomes the 'prince of princes'

Description:

In 861, the caliph conferred the title of "prince of princes" upon Ashot Bagratuni. This appointment marks the beginning of a splendid period in which life was good, the economy and arts flourished. The Bagratunis were among the most skillful diplomats of medieval times; they understood imperial power, and perceived the constraints that is imposed on them. They held no illusions about Christian Byzantium; rather the reverse - many of them were scurpulously loyal to the caliph.

Added to timeline:

Date: