Achila II

Achila II was a notable Visigothic king who ruled over Hispania and Septimania from the years seven hundred ten or seven hundred eleven until his death. His reign was marked by the tumultuous backdrop of Arabo-Berber invasions, which restricted his kingdom to the northeastern regions of the former Hispanic realm. The historical record of Achila's reign is sparse, primarily derived from coins and regnal lists, as he is not mentioned in reliable narrative histories.

Gold coins bearing Achila's name have been discovered, originating from mints in Girona, Zaragoza, Tarragona, and Narbonne. These numismatic findings, alongside regnal lists, suggest that Achila and Roderic were contemporaneous kings, likely ruling in opposition to one another following Roderic's coup, which may have resulted from the death of the previous king, Wittiza. The division of the kingdom appears to have been along geographical lines, with Roderic controlling the southwest and Achila governing the northeast.

During Achila's brief reign, which likely lasted until the year seven hundred thirteen or seven hundred fourteen, Arab raids began to plague the southern territories of Hispania. Roderic's attempts to repel these invaders ultimately led to his demise, and it is speculated that some of his supporters may have shifted allegiance to Achila during this tumultuous period. The political landscape was further complicated by the presence of a rival claimant, possibly an ecclesiastic named Oppa, who was declared king at Toledo.

As the Arab forces advanced, they captured significant territories, including Zaragoza, coinciding with the end of Achila's reign. His death may have occurred in battle against these invaders, marking a significant turning point in the history of Hispania. Following Achila's rule, Ardo succeeded him, reigning only in Narbonensis before succumbing to the Arab invasion in the year seven hundred twenty-one.