Born a Parthian prince and brother of King Vologases I, Tiridates was placed on the Armenian throne to secure Parthian influence in the region. This act triggered a major war with Rome, which viewed Armenia as its own sphere of influence. For years, Tiridates fought against the Roman general Corbulo, facing both defeat and fleeing his capital.
However, after the Roman surrender at Rhandeia, a diplomatic solution was reached. Tiridates would remain king, but he had to acknowledge Roman suzerainty. In 66 AD, he traveled to Rome in a magnificent procession known as the 'Golden Day'. There, he kneeled before Emperor Nero, addressed him as a god (Mithras), and received his crown, securing his legitimacy.
Tiridates I's reign established the Armenian branch of the Arsacid dynasty, which would rule Armenia for over 300 years. He rebuilt the capital Artaxata with Roman funds and served as a priest (Magus) of Zoroastrianism. His compromise with Rome ensured that Armenia remained a buffer state, balancing the power of the two great empires.