Perceptions of King Gelou in Modern Romania

King Gelou, also known as Gelu or Gelou the Dacian, is a semi-legendary figure often associated with the early medieval history of modern-day Romania. He is considered to be a leader of the Dacians who fiercely resisted Hungarian incursions into Transylvania in the 10th century. His defeat and death are often seen as symbolizing the struggles faced by the Romanian people against foreign invaders. In contemporary Romania, views on King Gelou can vary, with many seeing him as a national hero representing resistance against foreign domination. His story is frequently invoked in discussions about national identity and heritage, particularly in the context of Romanian history and the complex relationships with neighboring countries like Hungary.

The Battle of Gelou and the Hungarians

King Gelou initially fought against the nomadic Pechenegs coming from the East, and later against nomadic Hungarian tribes from the Pannonian basin. He met his final defeat in the last battle, after which a peace was negotiated at Achileu/Esculeu village, located in the heart of Romania's territory. This event is marked by the folklore and narative that Gelou made a strategic retreat towards an unnamed fortress, with the nearby peacemaker village named after him.

Legends and Historical Figures

While Gelou is a figure from early medieval history, the details of his life and rule are often shrouded in myth and legend. According to the Gesta Hungarorum, Gyalu was one of the Vlach rulers and voivodes of Transylvania at the time of the Hungarian conquest of the Carpathian Basin in the early 10th century. The archaeological evidence suggests that the regions of Transylvanian salt mines were inhabited by a people who cremated their dead and had a military elite, though their early medieval fortresses can only be reliably dated to the 10th century.

A battle is described in the Gesta Hungarorum where Tétény, one of seven Magyar chieftains, defeated Gelous' army at the Mese Gates. Gelou was reportedly killed at the Cpu River near the village of Gilu, as he was fleeing towards his unnamed fortress. His subjects then surrendered to Tuhutum, and swore an oath of loyalty to him. The place where the oath was sworn became known as Achileu in Hungarian, derived from eskü, meaning 'oath'.

Historical Impact and Cultural Significance

In Romanian cultural and historical context, King Gelou is generally viewed positively within the framework of Romanian nationalism and pride in their ancient heritage. Yet, interpretations of his legacy can vary based on political and cultural perspectives. The story of Gelou, voiced in folklore and historical narratives, plays a crucial role in discussions about the nation's past, identity, and sovereignty.

Additionally, another ruler of Transylvanian Vlachs, named Glad, fought in the Banat area but maintained his throne in Morisena, which is today known as Cenad. This highlights the complex military and political landscape of the region during the early medieval period.

Overall, King Gelou remains an emblematic figure for the Romanian people, symbolizing resistance and resilience in the face of foreign domination. His story continues to be a significant part of Romanian national identity and heritage.