Nepotian of Asturias

Nepotian of Asturias briefly held the title of king in the year eight hundred forty-two, a period marked by political intrigue and conflict. Before ascending to the throne, he served as the count of the palace under his predecessor, Alfonso II. The exact nature of his relationship to Alfonso remains a topic of debate among historians, with some suggesting he may have been a kinsman, though the legitimacy of this claim is uncertain.

Upon the death of Alfonso II, his designated successor, Ramiro I, was away in Bardulia preparing for his marriage to Paterna. Seizing the opportunity, Nepotian, with the backing of certain noble factions, usurped the throne in what many consider an illegitimate claim. This act of usurpation set the stage for a swift and violent confrontation.

As Ramiro I learned of Nepotian's actions, he mobilized an army and made his way back to Asturias. In a dramatic turn of events, Nepotian and his forces, comprised of Asturians and Basques, ambushed Ramiro near a bridge over the Narcea River. However, the tide quickly turned against Nepotian as he found himself abandoned by his troops, leading to his eventual flight.

Nepotian's downfall culminated in his capture in Pravia by counts Escipion and Somnan. As a consequence of his usurpation, Ramiro exacted a harsh punishment: Nepotian was blinded and subsequently imprisoned in a monastery. The historical narrative surrounding Nepotian is further complicated by conflicting accounts of his lineage, with later sources inaccurately labeling him as Alfonso's brother-in-law, a claim that lacks chronological support.