Battle of Issus: What Happened
In November 333 BC, Alexander the Great faced the Persian king Darius III himself for the first time, near Issus in southeast Anatolia, close to the modern border with Syria. Darius had gathered a large army and maneuvered behind Alexander, cutting his supply lines. Alexander turned back to fight on a narrow coastal plain between the mountains and the sea, where the larger Persian army could not use its full numbers. Alexander led a charge of his Companion cavalry against the Persian left and then drove toward Darius's position in the center. Darius fled the field in his chariot, and the Persian army collapsed. Alexander captured the Persian camp, including Darius's mother, wife and children, whom he treated with respect. Darius later offered a huge ransom and a share of the empire in exchange for peace, but Alexander refused. The famous Alexander Mosaic from Pompeii, now in Naples, is believed to show Alexander and Darius at this battle or at Gaugamela. The victory opened the way for Alexander to march south into Syria, Phoenicia and Egypt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Battle of Issus?
The Battle of Issus, in November 333 BC, was the first time Alexander the Great faced the Persian king Darius III in person. Alexander won a decisive victory.
Where was the Battle of Issus fought?
It was fought on a narrow coastal plain near Issus in southeast Anatolia, close to the modern border between Turkey and Syria.
What happened to Darius's family after Issus?
Darius fled the battlefield, leaving behind his mother, wife and children. Alexander captured them and treated them with respect and honor.
What is the Alexander Mosaic?
The Alexander Mosaic is a famous Roman floor mosaic from Pompeii showing Alexander fighting Darius, believed to depict Issus or Gaugamela. It is displayed in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.
What happened after the Battle of Issus?
Darius offered a huge ransom and part of his empire for peace, but Alexander refused. He then marched south into Syria, Phoenicia and Egypt.
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