Description Fortissimi and Validissimi, the strongest and bravest, was how Roman writers described the Batavians. Natives of the Lower Rhine, they were a community of ethnic soldiers who supplied the Roman army with men. Led by their native aristocracy, loyal and fierce, they became elite soldiers, personal bodyguards to the emperors and the empire’s most valued European auxiliaries. The book draws on many sources, such as Roman historical writings, Latin inscriptions and archaeological finds – the author is a coordinator of the excavations at the site of a Batavian cavalry troop. The history of the Batavians includes remarkable events: a rebellion against Rome in the Lower Rhine, a bloody battle with the Caledonians in Britannia, a cavalryman crossing the Danube in full armour before Emperor Hadrian, and a troop commander being called ‘rex’ while being asked for more beer for his men. Fortissimi and Validissimi recreates a compelling history, for history enthusiasts, re-enactment communities and professionals alike.
