BattlefieldsAssault on Spetisbury Rings
Roman Period

Assault on Spetisbury Rings

44
Dorset, England
Also known as: Crawford Hill Assault · Spetisbury Hillfort
Era
Roman Period
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Dorset, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Durotriges
Forces
Durotriges: c. 300–600 defenders.
VS
Victor
Rome (Vespasian)
Forces
Rome (Vespasian): c. 1,200–2,000 troops
Outcome
Hillfort taken; mass grave of defenders found
The Battle

History & Significance

A mass grave discovered at Spetisbury Rings (Crawford Hill) in 1857 contained about 80 skeletons, many with sword cuts and arrow wounds consistent with a military assault. This is one of the most direct pieces of archaeological evidence for Vespasian's campaign against the Durotriges. The defenders appear to have made a last stand in the ditch of the hillfort.

Casualties & Losses

c.80+ defenders killed (archaeological evidence)

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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