Roman-Sasanian Wars

In this episode, we explore the Roman-Sasanian Wars and the centuries-long struggle that defined the eastern frontier of Late Antiquity. We examine the ambitious but short-lived “Eternal Peace” of 532 between Justinian I and Chosroes I, revealing how diplomacy briefly paused—but could not end—the rivalry between two superpowers. We also trace the evolution of frontier defenses, from fortified lines in Arabia built to counter nomadic incursions to the contested strongholds of the Caucasus, where regional allies like the Lazians played a decisive strategic role. Through key moments such as the Battle of Ctesiphon and the disastrous campaign of Emperor Julian, we unpack how shifting fortunes, territorial losses, and military miscalculations reshaped imperial borders. Ultimately, this episode highlights how a dynamic blend of warfare, fortification, and fragile diplomacy sustained one of antiquity’s most consequential geopolitical conflicts.