Heraclius Constantine was a Byzantine emperor who held power for only three months in 641. Born in 612 to Emperor Heraclius and Fabia Eudokia, he was crowned as Augustus in 613 during his infancy. Throughout his youth, he participated in the defense of Constantinople during the siege of 626. Although he spent much of his life in a subordinate role alongside his father and later his half-brother, he became the senior emperor upon his father's death. He died in Chalcedon later that same year.
Life and reign
As the eldest son of Heraclius, Constantine was married to Gregoria, with whom he had two sons, including the future emperor Constans II. Following his father's death in February 641, he shared the throne with his half-brother Heraclonas. Fearing the influence of his stepmother, Martina, he attempted to secure his children's future by distributing gold to the military. He died of tuberculosis in May 641, shortly after beginning his sole reign.
Veneration
He is recognized as a saint within the Orthodox tradition. His short rule and the subsequent political struggles involving his family members have made him a notable figure in the history of the Byzantine Empire.