A Study on Sertorius’ Siege of the City of Contrebia According to the Testimony of Livy (Frag. 91)

Authors

  • Gregorio Carrasco Serrano Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha
  • David Romero Fernández Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53351/h2z7nt65

Keywords:

Contrebia, siege, Livy, Sertorian War, deditio

Abstract

This article examines the siege of the city of Contrebia by Sertorius in 77 BCE, based on the testimony of Livy (Frag. 91). According to the Patavian author’s account, Contrebia represents a noteworthy case of siege warfare in terms of the development of advanced siege tactics. In addition to the use of siege towers, mining techniques were also employed to ensure the rapid capture of the city. The strategic importance of Contrebia for Sertorius’ army lay in its status as an urbancenter crucial for controlling the communications connecting Celtiberia with the eastern Iberian coast. Given its duration—forty-four days according to Livy—this siege can be classified as a medium‑duration encampment and active blockade. Although little is known about the city’s defensive measures, its defense was undoubtedly complex and likely focused primarily on the fortified perimeter. This emphasis on the city walls frames almost all of Livy’s references, both in his mention of the siege towers, aimed at overcoming the height of the walls, and in his description of their eventual collapse. The article also analyzes the deditio referred to by Livy in Frag. 91. Through this act of surrender, a series of obligations were imposed on the city of Contrebia, including the surrender of weapons, the provision of hostages, and financial compensation. Due to its strategic significance, a substantial Roman garrison was also stationed in the city. Nevertheless, the burdens imposed after the city’s capture were relatively moderate. Overall, the siege of Contrebia by Sertorius, as described by Livy, constitutes an example of advanced Mediterranean‑style siege warfare in terms of both tactics and the deployment of siege resources.

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Published

2025-12-17

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 29 (2025): Xauen 2024: A Hidden Annual or a Success of the Dictator?

Section

Estudios

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Copyright (c) 2025 Gregorio Carrasco Serrano, David Romero Fernández

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How to Cite

A Study on Sertorius’ Siege of the City of Contrebia According to the Testimony of Livy (Frag. 91). (2025). Revista Universitaria De Historia Militar, 14(29), 111-128. https://doi.org/10.53351/h2z7nt65

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