Cleitus (son of Bardylis)

Cleitus (Ancient Greek: Κλεῖτος; ruled c. 356 – 335 BC) was an Illyrian ruler, the son of the King Bardylis and the father of Bardylis II.

Cleitus was the mastermind behind the well structured Illyrian Revolt of 335 BC. Cleitus entered into an agreement with the Taulantii State under Glaucias and the Autariatae State under Pleurias. Cleitus had captured and garrisoned the city of Pelion and waited for Glaucias' troops to arrive. However, Alexander arrived on the scene first and blockaded Cleitus within the city walls. Glaucias came to Cleitus' aid, and the Macedonians were forced to retreat. Alexander came back with more equipment and supplies and skillfully drove Glaucias' army from the surrounding heights, preventing Cleitus from engaging with Glaucias.

After a three-day truce, Alexander found the Taulantii camp unguarded and defeated the Illyrians under the cover of night. Cleitus managed to escape and likely kept his throne ruling in, probably as a vassal under the Macedonian Kingdom. Cleitus was ruler of southern Illyrians, probably centered in Dassaretis.