Justinian's Reconquest of the West: What Happened
Between 533 and 554 AD, the Byzantine emperor Justinian I launched a series of wars to reclaim the western lands of the old Roman Empire, which had fallen to Germanic kingdoms in the 5th century. His brilliant general Belisarius led the first campaign against the Vandal kingdom in North Africa. In a swift war in 533 to 534, he captured Carthage and brought the region back under imperial rule. Belisarius then invaded Italy, ruled by the Ostrogoths, and took Sicily, Naples and Rome. The Italian war proved long and destructive, dragging on for nearly twenty years. The eunuch general Narses finally defeated the Ostrogoths in the early 550s. Byzantine forces also seized part of southern Spain from the Visigoths. By the end of Justinian's reign, the Mediterranean was once again largely a Roman sea. The cost, however, was enormous. The wars drained the treasury, devastated Italy, and left the eastern frontier exposed to Persia. Much of the reconquered territory was lost within decades, as the Lombards invaded Italy in 568.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Justinian's reconquest of the West?
Between 533 and 554 AD, the emperor Justinian I launched wars to reclaim western lands of the old Roman Empire from Germanic kingdoms in North Africa, Italy and Spain.
Who was Belisarius?
Belisarius was Justinian's brilliant general who conquered the Vandal kingdom in North Africa in 533 to 534 AD and led the early campaigns in Italy.
Did Justinian reconquer Rome?
Yes. Byzantine forces captured Rome during the long war against the Ostrogoths in Italy, although the city changed hands several times during the fighting.
How long did the war in Italy last?
The war against the Ostrogoths in Italy lasted nearly twenty years. The general Narses finally defeated the Ostrogoths in the early 550s.
Did Justinian's conquests last?
Much of the reconquered territory was lost within decades. The Lombards invaded Italy in 568, and the wars had drained the empire's treasury.
