Zidanta I

Zidanta I (died 1550 BC) was a king of the Hittites (Old Kingdom), ruling for 10 years, ca. 1560–1550 BC (middle chronology) or 1496–1486 BC (short chronology timeline). According to the Telepinu Proclamation, this king became a ruler by murder.

Family Zidanta was married to the daughter of Hantili I, brother-in-law to King Mursili I.

It is known that his wife’s name ends with either -ša or -ta.

Prior to Kingship The Royal Coup Zidanta encouraged and helped Hantili to kill Mursili and seize the throne. He then served Hantili I for the duration of his reign.

Usurpation of the Throne At the end of Hantili’s life, Zidanta killed Pišeni, the legitimate heir, together with Pišeni’s children and foremost servants, and so made it possible for himself to become king.

Reign His reign is thought to have lasted around 10 years around 1560-1550 BC (middle chronology).

Assassination Zidanta was killed by his own son, Ammuna, who then succeeded him.