Thais of Athens was a Greek hetaira (courtesan) and companion of Alexander the Great, most famous for reportedly persuading Alexander to burn the palace of Persepolis during a drunken celebration in 330 BCE. She later became the wife of Ptolemy I, the founder of the Ptolemaic dynasty that ruled Egypt until Cleopatra.

What Happened at Persepolis?

According to ancient historians, Thais suggested during a banquet that Alexander should burn the palace of Persepolis as revenge for the Persian destruction of Athens during the Greco-Persian Wars. Alexander, drunk and inflamed by the idea, led the party through the palace with torches, and the greatest monument of the Persian Empire was destroyed. Some historians debate whether Thais truly instigated the burning.

Can You Talk to Thais of Athens?

You can speak with Thais on HoloDream, where she is available as an AI companion. She brings the political intelligence and bold charm of a woman who whispered to one of history's greatest conquerors and he lit the match. Whether you want to discuss power, influence, or the art of the perfectly timed suggestion, Thais knows how to make things happen.