BattlefieldsBattle of the Ordovices — Caratacus Last Stand
Roman Period

Battle of the Ordovices — Caratacus Last Stand

51
Montgomeryshire, Wales
Also known as: Battle of Caer Caradoc (Welsh) · Last Stand of Caratacus
Era
Roman Period
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Montgomeryshire, Wales
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Ordovices / Silures (Caratacus)
Forces
Ordovices & Caratacus: c. 3,000–5,000.
VS
Victor
Rome (Ostorius Scapula)
Forces
Romans (Scapula): c. 4,000–5,000
Outcome
Roman victory; Caratacus defeated and captured; Welsh resistance leadership shattered
The Battle

History & Significance

Caratacus, who had led British resistance since the Roman invasion of 43 AD, made his final stand somewhere in the Ordovician heartland (likely mid-Wales or the Welsh borders). He chose a steep hillside overlooking a river crossing. Despite the strong position, Roman discipline prevailed. Caratacus fled to Queen Cartimandua of the Brigantes, who betrayed him to Rome. His speech before Emperor Claudius, recorded by Tacitus, is one of antiquity's great rhetorical set-pieces. The exact site is disputed — several hills in Shropshire and mid-Wales are candidates.

Casualties & Losses

Caratacus's family captured; heavy Welsh losses

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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