BattlefieldsClaudian Invasion Landing at Richborough
Roman Period

Claudian Invasion Landing at Richborough

43
Kent, England
Also known as: Landing at Rutupiae 43 AD · Roman Invasion Kent 43 AD
Era
Roman Period
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Kent, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Catuvellauni / Cantii (Caratacus / Togodumnus)
Forces
Catuvellauni/Cantii: c. 20,000–30,000.
VS
Victor
Romans (Aulus Plautius)
Forces
Romans: c. 40,000 (4 legions + auxiliaries)
Outcome
Roman legions landed successfully; British tribal resistance overcome at the coast
The Battle

History & Significance

Four Roman legions — the II Augusta, IX Hispana, XIV Gemina and XX Valeria Victrix — landed at Richborough (Rutupiae) on the Kent coast. The site became the gateway to Roman Britain; the triumphal arch and later fort remain archaeologically significant. Initial British resistance was overcome and the invasion corridor into Kent was secured for the advance on the Medway.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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