Battle of Callinicum
531 CE · Callinicum on the Euphrates (near Raqqa, modern Syria) · World · Medieval
The Persian army launched an all-out assault when Byzantium's allies withdrew early, and Belisarius's force made a fighting retreat along the riverbank without breaking.
Belligerents
Sasanian Persia
- Commanders
- Azarethes
- Strength
- Persian and Lakhmid Arab coalition
Eastern Roman Empire
- Commanders
- Belisarius
- Strength
- Byzantine army
Background
After their defeat at Dara, the Persians switched to a southern route to invade Syria, and Belisarius hastily led his army to intercept them.
Course of the battle
- StandoffThe two armies formed up along the Euphrates, and Byzantium's allies withdrew midway.
- AssaultThe Persian army launched an all-out assault on the weakened Byzantine force.
- Fighting retreatBelisarius's force fought as it withdrew along the riverbank, avoiding total annihilation.
Outcome at a glance
| Date | 531 CE |
|---|---|
| Place | Callinicum on the Euphrates (near Raqqa, modern Syria) |
| Result | The Persian army launched an all-out assault when Byzantium's allies withdrew early, and Belisarius's force made a fighting retreat along the riverbank without breaking. |
| Winner | Sasanian Persia |
| Casualties | The Byzantines suffered fairly heavy casualties, and the Persians also took losses. |
| Territorial change | The Syrian frontier was temporarily harassed by the Persian army, and after the battle both sides turned to peace talks. |
Impact
Byzantium acknowledged the defeat, which led the two sides to conclude the "Perpetual Peace" treaty in 532 CE.
See the world in 531 on the map →