Viriato Viriathus Portuguese Heroic statue

Viriato was a leader of the Lusitanian people in ancient Iberia (modern-day Portugal and parts of Spain) during the 2nd century BCE. He is best known for his role in leading a resistance against Roman expansion into the Iberian Peninsula. Viriato's efforts to defend his people made him a symbol of resistance and heroism.

The details of Viriato's life are not well-documented, and much of what is known comes from Roman sources, such as Livy and Appian. According to these accounts, Viriato was a shepherd who became a military leader, rallying various Iberian tribes to resist Roman forces. He employed guerrilla tactics, utilizing the knowledge of the local terrain to his advantage.

Viriato's resistance proved to be a significant challenge for the Romans, and he successfully resisted their attempts to subjugate the Lusitanians for several years. However, the Romans eventually resorted to deceit, and Viriato was assassinated by some of his own people who had been bribed by Roman officials in 139 BCE.

Despite his eventual betrayal and death, Viriato is remembered as a national hero in Portugal and has become a symbol of resistance against foreign oppression. He is often celebrated in literature, art, and various cultural expressions in the Iberian Peninsula.