John Athalarichos (Greek: Ἰωάννης Ἀθαλάριχος; Latin: Ioannes Athalaricus), also spelled as Atalarichos,[1] Athalaric,[2] and At'alarik,[3] was an illegitimate son of the 7th century Byzantine Emperor Heraclius.
[citation needed] Athalarichos first appears in 622, when he was sent, along with Heraclius' nephew Stephen and John, the illegitimate son of the patrician Bonus, as a hostage to the Avars to cement a peace agreement.
Also involved were the curopalates Varaztirots, son of Smbat Bagratuni; David Saharuni, Athalarichos' cousin; and Heraclius' nephew, the magister Theodore.
[3][5] The scheme was never executed, as an informer among the conspirators told the imperial court that Athalarichos was planning a coup attempt.
[6] Theodore received the same treatment, but was sent to Gaudomelete (possibly modern day Gozo) with additional instructions to cut off one leg.