BattlefieldsFall of Camulodunum
Roman Period

Fall of Camulodunum

43
Essex, England
Also known as: Roman Capture of Colchester · Claudius at Camulodunum
Era
Roman Period
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Essex, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Catuvellauni
Forces
Catuvellauni: c. 3,000–5,000.
VS
Victor
Rome (Emperor Claudius)
Forces
Romans: c. 20,000–25,000
Outcome
Capital of the Catuvellauni taken; eleven British kings submitted to Claudius
The Battle

History & Significance

Emperor Claudius arrived personally for the climax of the conquest — he was present for only sixteen days. Camulodunum (Colchester), the most important settlement in pre-Roman Britain, was captured. Eleven British kings submitted in person. Claudius held a triumph and was awarded the honorific "Britannicus". The city became the first Roman colonia in Britain, and a great temple of Claudius was built there.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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