Alaric's Invasion of Greece: What Happened
In 395 AD, soon after the death of Theodosius I, the Visigothic leader Alaric led his people on a destructive campaign through the Balkans and into Greece. The Visigoths had been settled inside the empire and had served in its armies, but they were angry at their treatment and lack of reward. Alaric marched south through Thessaly, passed through Thermopylae without resistance and invaded central and southern Greece. According to ancient accounts, Athens avoided destruction, possibly by paying a ransom, though a later legend claimed the goddess Athena and the hero Achilles appeared on the walls to frighten Alaric away. Other places were not so lucky. The Visigoths plundered Corinth, Argos and Sparta and destroyed the sanctuary of Eleusis, home of the ancient Mysteries. In 397 AD, the western Roman general Stilicho trapped Alaric's army in the mountains of the Peloponnese, but Alaric escaped. The eastern government then made Alaric a military commander in Illyricum to keep the peace. In 410 AD, Alaric went on to sack Rome itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Alaric?
Alaric was the leader of the Visigoths, a Germanic people who had settled inside the Roman Empire. He led campaigns through Greece and later sacked Rome in 410 AD.
When did Alaric invade Greece?
Alaric invaded Greece in 395 AD, soon after the death of Theodosius I, marching south through Thessaly and Thermopylae.
Did Alaric sack Athens?
Athens avoided destruction, possibly by paying a ransom. A later legend claimed that Athena and Achilles appeared on the walls and frightened Alaric away.
What damage did Alaric cause in Greece?
The Visigoths plundered Corinth, Argos and Sparta and destroyed the sanctuary of Eleusis, home of the ancient Eleusinian Mysteries.
How did Alaric's invasion of Greece end?
In 397 AD, the general Stilicho trapped Alaric in the Peloponnese, but he escaped. The eastern government then gave him a military command in Illyricum.
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