Theban victory at Cynoscephalae ended Alexander of Pherae's bid for Thessalian hegemony, though it cost the life of the general Pelopidas.
Key Facts
- Date
- 364 BC
- Alexander's estimated force
- 17,000–20,000 troops
- Theban force initially voted
- 7,000 soldiers under Pelopidas
- Solar eclipse (bad omen)
- 13 July 364 BC, caused disbanding of main force
- Estimated force ratio
- Approx. 2:1 in Alexander's favour
- Theban commander killed
- Pelopidas died during final assault
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Alexander of Pherae had expanded Pheraean dominance over Thessaly since 369 BC, prompting Thessalian cities to seek Theban intervention. Earlier Theban campaigns in 369 and 368 BC proved inconclusive. In 364, Thebes voted to send 7,000 troops under Pelopidas, but a solar eclipse on 13 July was deemed an ill omen and the main army was disbanded, leaving Pelopidas to proceed with only volunteer cavalry and locally recruited Thessalian troops.
The two forces met at Cynoscephalae, a hilly region west of Pherae. Both sides initially struggled to seize elevated ground using light infantry; Alexander's troops secured the heights while Pelopidas's cavalry dominated the southern plain. Pelopidas recalled his cavalry, reorganised his infantry, and pressed an attack that caused Alexander's forces to abandon the high ground. In the ensuing assault, Pelopidas was killed, but Alexander's army broke and was decisively defeated.
Alexander's defeat forced him to relinquish his territorial gains in Thessaly and accept the status of a subordinate ally of Thebes. The Thessalians honoured Pelopidas with multiple commemorations and extended benefits to his children. Although Theban influence in Thessaly was preserved, the death of Pelopidas removed one of the city's most capable military commanders at a critical period.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Pelopidas.
Side B
1 belligerent
Alexander of Pherae.