Lost eagles 🦅
of Roman army
The Roman eagle 🦅 Aquila was one of the most powerful and symbolic insignia of the Roman military. The term “eagle-bearer” or Aquilifer referred to the soldier who carried the eagle standard into battle, a position of high prestige and responsibility. The standards were highly valued, and losing one in battle was considered a severe loss.
They not only had military significance but also carried religious and spiritual connotations, as they were thought to be protected by divine powers, ensuring the safety and strength of the Roman Empire. Here’s some interesting context about the Roman Eagle.
Symbol of Power The eagle represented Roman power, dominion, and divine favor. It was associated with the Roman god Jupiter, the king of the gods in Roman mythology, often seen as a protector of the Roman state. The eagle was seen as a divine messenger and a symbol of victory.
The Aquila The standard itself, the Aquila, was a golden or silver eagle mounted on a pole. It was a sacred object, and the loss of an eagle was considered a grave dishonor for the legion. The eagle would often be carried by the Aquilifer into the heart of battle.
The Role of the Aquilifer The Aquilifer was responsible for protecting the Aquila. Losing the eagle in battle or failing to defend it was seen as a major disgrace. This position was often given to a trusted soldier, and the Aquilifer would be surrounded by a bodyguard of soldiers to ensure the eagle’s safety.
Military Significance Legions would carry their eagle into battle, and the eagle’s presence was seen as a rallying point for soldiers. The eagle was a rallying point in times of crisis and was also carried into triumphal processions during the celebrations of military victories.
Spiritual and Cultural Importance The eagle had spiritual and cultural significance beyond just being a military symbol. It was also tied to Roman imperial imagery. Emperors would often adopt the eagle as a personal symbol, further reinforcing its importance to the identity of the Roman Empire.
The lost eagles of the Roman army, particularly the Aquila 🦅 represent one of the most dramatic and significant moments in Roman military history. In 86, during the Dacian Wars of the Domitian, the fifth legion of Alaudae was completely annihilated at the Battle of TAPÆ, and his eagle was captured by the victorious Dacians.
Domitian’s Dacian wars started with general Oppius Sabinus leading I Italica (and vexillations from V Macedonica) killed and the legion destroyed. Domitian’s first campaign in Dacia had Cornelius Fuscus, general and commander of the Pretorian Guard, lead 6 legions into GETÆ Empire, which were badly beaten, with Fuscus killed and the Legion V Alaudae being destroyed and losing it’s eagle and most of the standards (including the standard of the Praetorian Guard).
For the second GETÆ campaign, Domitian had general Tettius Iulianus lead at least 6 legions. Another roman legion (XXI Rapax) was destroyed in Moesia inferior in 92. For his GETÆ campaigns, emperor Trajan summoned no less than 17 legions.
Just as a short summary, 2-3 roman legions completely destroyed, an army of 6 legions beaten, with another 17 legions army summoned for the last invasion! In 378 A.D. also the Romans suffered a defeat in the battle of Adrianople. It comprised seven legions — among which were the Legio I Maximiana and imperial auxiliaries and it ended with an overwhelming victory for the Goths the Gets and the death of Emperor Valens. Part of the Gothic Getic War (376–382), the battle is often considered the start of the process which led to the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century.
At least 30 ⚔️ legions
& at most 30 🦅 eagles
Bărboşi, Horezu, Răcari 🇷🇴 Orlea & Sălcuţa 🦅 eagles. Absolutely by chance, a Roman bronze aquila discovered in the ploughed field in the area of the locality Sălcuţa, Dolj County, south of today Romania. The piece was fully cast, and its weight shows that the metal composition contains, except for bronze or other metals, an important quantity of lead. On its surface there is a greenish patina, characteristic of ancient bronze pieces; this patina is “interrupted” from place to place because the piece was gilded on the entire surface. The few preserved details allow us to consider that the aquila was carefully made. If we take into consideration that the piece was gilded then we can say that it is a valuable representation belonging to an important military unit; Dimensions: the length- 16.8cm; the height- 8.2cm. Weight- 340g.
Visit Romanian Museums
If you are captivated by this discovery, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Romanian museums where this Aquila and other fascinating artifacts from the Roman era are displayed. These museums offer a chance to witness firsthand the history and culture of ancient civilizations that shaped modern Romania.
Protect Their Sovereignty
Additionally, delve into the fascinating world of the Geto-Dacians and their legendary battle standard, the Dragon WOLF. This unique, serpent-shaped standard was a symbol of their military might and is an integral part of Romania’s heritage. Discover more about its role in the fierce battles fought by the Geto-Dacians against the Romans.
Visit the museums, uncover the story behind these awe-inspiring relics, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Romanian history. Don’t miss out on exploring these exceptional artifacts and the intriguing story they tell about the past.
The Geto-Dacians, fierce defenders of their lands were renowned for their Dragon-Wolf battle standard which symbolized both strength and resilience. This awe-inspiring standard, with its serpent-like shape and fearsome design, was carried into battle as a symbol of their unwavering defiance against the Roman legions.
To truly appreciate the might of the Geto-Dacians, come and witness the 🐺 Dragon WOLF 🐉 and other remarkable artifacts that tell the story of a people who fought valiantly against the roman legions to protect their sovereignty.