The Invasion of the Costoboci in Lower Moesia and Thrace in 170 AD
Abstract
The book represents the first monographic study of the invasion of the Costoboci into the territories south of the Lower Danube in AD 170. It examines the complex body of evidence from written sources, epigraphic monuments, and coin hoards, with an emphasis on archaeological data that until now have not been fully utilized. The methodological approach includes identifying destruction and fires at archaeological sites that can be chronologically linked to the invasion in question and its consequences. More than 100 sites with occupation in the 2nd century AD have been analyzed, and the information concerning them has been subjected to critical evaluation.
A comparison of data from the different sources shows that there are significant discrepancies between numismatic and archaeological evidence, and that only a comprehensive analysis of all sources can serve as a reliable basis for sufficiently credible conclusions. In the course of the research, part of the archaeological information about the sites has been reassessed, and new hypotheses have been formulated.
As a result of the study, the initial incursion of the Costoboci into Lower Moesia through Northern Dobrudja is confirmed, while most of the Greek poleis on western coast of the Pontus and the military forts along the Danube limes do not appear to have been directly affected. The advance of the barbarians toward Macedonia and Greece is traced through the territory of present-day northern Bulgaria, the western parts of the province of Thrace (Serdica), and along the Struma valley. The analysis of archaeological sites in present-day Northwestern Bulgaria shows that, at this stage, there is insufficient reliable information to confirm the passage of the attackers through these territories. The route proposed in earlier studies (Ratiaria – Naissus – Thessalonica) finds no confirmation in the archaeological evidence. The significant number of coin hoards from Northwestern Bulgaria appears to be due rather to economic factors and local disturbances caused by brigands. Possible new routes of penetration are also proposed: from Deultum westward toward Philippopolis, and from the Struma valley toward Pautalia. The possibility of an alternative attack from the north near Oescus is also considered.
On the basis of the extensive archaeological evidence analyzed, a comprehensive assessment of the economic development of the territories south of the Lower Danube is proposed. The consequences of the invasion and the changes resulting from it are examined. The parameters of Marcus Aurelius’ provincial policy are discussed, including the construction of urban fortifications in Thrace, changes in the status of civilian settlements near legionary camps, the establishment of emporia, economic stagnation during the Marcomannic Wars, as well as socio-economic and demographic changes.
Attention is also given to the emperor’s passage through Thrace in AD 175 during his journey to Syria caused by the usurpation of Avidius Cassius. There are grounds to assume that Marcus Aurelius’ route from the Danube to the interior of Thrace most likely followed the road Oescus – Philippopolis. The study of the Costoboci invasion thus offers not only possible solutions regarding the routes of the attackers’ advance, but also presents a comprehensive picture of provincial development in Lower Moesia and Thrace in the last quarter of the 2nd century AD.
