Hethum I, the first of the Hethumids, came to power when he married Queen Isabella of Armenia who had inherited the throne from her father.

The Hethumid dynasty was established when Constantine's grandson, Hethum I, was appointed as the ruler of Cilicia by the Mongol Empire.

Hethum I expanded the kingdom's territory and forged close ties with the Mongol Empire, which allowed him to maintain autonomy and protection from external threats.

The dynasty was known for its support of the arts, literature, and architecture, which led to the construction of magnificent buildings and the creation of beautiful artworks.

The Hethumid rulers also maintained alliances with the Crusaders and other European powers, which brought significant economic and political benefits to the kingdom.