For approximately three centuries, from 251 to 565 AD, Rome was dominated by a series of emperors of Illyrian origin. This period was crucial in the history of the Roman Empire, as the Illyrians played a key role in keeping the Vandal and Slavic tribes away from the region's borders, an area that would later be known as the Balkans. Most of these emperors hailed from the region of Sirmium (near present-day Mitrovica) in Illyria. However, after the 6th century, Illyrian emperors disappeared from the Roman political scene, raising questions about whether this was due to a loss of their influence or a deliberate conspiracy.
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| Photo of statue portraits of Illyrian emperors at the head of Rome |
Trajan Decius: The First Illyrian Emperor
The first Illyrian emperor was Trajan Decius, also known as Gaius Messius Quintus Decius Augustus. He ruled from 249 to 251 and was born in 201 in Budalia (Mitrovica, Kosovo). Decius rose to power through a successful military and political career, beginning as a soldier and later serving as a senator, prefect of the city of Rome, and governor in Moesia, Germania, and Hispania.
During his reign, Decius undertook several construction projects, including the building of thermal baths in Aventine and the restoration of the Colosseum in Rome after it was damaged by lightning strikes. Unfortunately, he and his son, Herenius Etruscus, were killed in the Battle of Abritus against the Goths in 251.
Hostilianus: Decius' Successor
Hostilianus, the son of Decius and Herennia Cupressenia Etruscilla, was another emperor of Illyrian origin. Born in Sirmium in 230, he took the throne in 251 but always remained in the shadow of his elder brother, Herennius. Although he did not have the opportunity to prove his abilities in battle, Hostilianus stayed in Rome, gaining the necessary experience to lead.
Claudius II: The Battle Hero
Claudius II, also known as Claudius Gothicus, became emperor in 268. He began his career as a simple soldier and later became the commander of an army stationed in Pavia. As emperor, Claudius was noted for his significant victory against the Goths at Nish, a battle that earned him the nickname "Gothicus." He ruled for only two years before dying in Illyria.
Quintillus: The Short-Lived Emperor
Records about the reign of Quintillus are sparse and contradictory. Some sources suggest he ruled for only 17 days, while others claim his reign lasted 177 days. The cause of his death remains unclear, with some stating he was killed by his own soldiers and others claiming he committed suicide. However, it is agreed that he died in Aquileia and left behind two sons.
Aurelian: The Savior of Illyria
Aurelian, born in Sirmium, ascended to the throne after Quintillus' death. He was known for his victories in battle and earned the title "Savior of Illyria." During his reign, he issued a decree against Christians, influenced by his advisor Porphyry, the founder of Neoplatonism. Aurelian ruled for about five years and was assassinated during a march from Byzantium to Persia.
Probus: Defender of the Borders
Probus was another Illyrian emperor who ruled for about six years. He distinguished himself in battles against Germanic, Frankish, and Vandal tribes, driving them away from the empire's borders. Probus was killed by his soldiers during a rebellion while overseeing the draining of marshes in Sirmium in 282.
Conclusion
For three centuries, the Illyrian emperors played a significant role in the defense and development of the Roman Empire. However, after the 6th century, their influence waned, and Illyrian emperors disappeared from Rome's political scene. Whether this was a coincidence or the result of a deliberate conspiracy remains a question that further studies may answer.