Kreka

Kreka is a historical name of uncertain etymology, possibly of Turkic or Germanic origin. It was borne by the most powerful of Attila's wives, the 5th-century leader of the Huns. In his account of a diplomatic mission to Attila's court in 448 or 449 AD, the Eastern Roman diplomat Priscus described Kreka (also called Hereka) as the mother of Attila's three sons: Ellac, Dengizich, and Ernák. After Attila's death in 453, these sons divided what remained of his empire. Priscus noted that Kreka lived within Attila's compound, a complex of ornate wooden buildings, and received gifts during his visit.

Etymology

The meaning of the name Kreka is unknown. It may relate to the Turkic word kerek ("large") or the Gothic word hailaga ("holy"), but no consensus exists. In Germanic heroic legend, the name appears as Helche or Herka, wife of the historical Attila figure transformed into a legendary king Etzel. This legend, notably in the Nibelungenlied, portrays her as a queen of great power and dignity.

Notable Bearers

• Kreka (5th century AD) – wife of Attila the Hun. She was the mother of Ellac, Dengizich, and Ernák. Priscus records that she had borne three children to Attila, and that Ellac ruled the Akateri tribes in Scythia.

Cultural Significance

Kreka's story survives notably through Priscus, a primary source for Hunnic history. In medieval Germanic sagas, she appears as Helche, celebrated for her wisdom and nobility. The name appears in related forms: Réka is a Hungarian variant that remains in use today.

Key Facts

• Meaning: unknown, possibly of Turkic or Germanic origin
• Usage: Historical
• Notable bearer: Kreka (wife of Attila)
• Related: Réka (Hungarian)