The Mystery of the Battle of Edessa: When the Roman Emperor Was Taken Prisoner

Roman history once marked an unprecedented humiliation: Emperor Valerian was captured alive at the Battle of Edessa – an unprecedented shock to the ancient world.

1. It was a battle between Rome and the Sassanid Empire. The Battle of Edessa took place near the city of Edessa (now in Turkey), in the context of the Roman Empire being weakened and attacked from many sides, especially the east due to the expansion of Sassanid. Photo: Pinterest.

2. Roman Emperor Valerian was captured alive. This was the first and only time in Roman history that a reigning emperor was taken prisoner by the enemy – a huge shock to the imperial system. Photo: Pinterest.

3. Shapur I recorded his victory on stone as an insult to the Romans. King Shapur I had the image of himself on horseback forcing Valerian to kneel at his feet engraved on the stone stele at Naqsh-e Rustam – a powerful propaganda symbol. Photo: Pinterest.

4. The Roman army suffered terrible losses. According to many ancient historical sources, tens of thousands of Roman soldiers were killed or enslaved after the defeat at Edessa, severely weakening the Eastern forces. Photo: dreamstime.

5. Valerian was humiliated. Records say he was used as a footstool for King Shapur when he mounted his horse and was eventually brutally murdered, his body stuffed with straw and used as a trophy. Photo: Pinterest.

6. The defeat at Edessa plunged Rome into chaos. After Valerian was captured, many eastern territories rebelled, generals fought for power, and the empire fell into a prolonged crisis. Photo: Pinterest.

7. Valerian's son Gallienus succeeded him but was not strong enough to change things. Gallienus tried to stabilize the situation, but Rome continued to be invaded by Germanic tribes, Goths and Gallic breakaway groups. Photo: Pinterest.

8. The Battle of Edessa confirmed Sassanid power in the region. This resounding victory helped Shapur I consolidate his position and make surrounding powers wary, while affirming Persia as Rome's most formidable rival in the East. Photo: Pinterest.

Source: https://khoahocdoisong.vn/bi-an-tran-edessa-khi-hoang-de-la-ma-bi-lam-tu-binh-post1553469.html