Battle of Verona (312)

The Battle of Verona, fought in 312 AD, was a significant engagement in the civil war between Constantine I and Maxentius for control of the Western Roman Empire. Constantine, advancing rapidly from Gaul into Italy, encountered and decisively defeated a large Maxentian force outside the city of Verona in northern Italy.

The Maxentian army, commanded by Ruricius Pompeianus, the praetorian prefect, held a strong defensive position near the city. Despite being outnumbered, Constantine launched a determined attack, displaying tactical acumen and personal bravery. The battle was fiercely contested, but Constantine's forces ultimately prevailed, routing the Maxentian army and killing Ruricius Pompeianus.

This victory was crucial for Constantine. It opened the path for him to advance further into Italy, culminating in his decisive victory over Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge outside Rome later that year. The Battle of Verona demonstrated Constantine's military prowess and played a pivotal role in securing his control over the Western Roman Empire, paving the way for his eventual reign as sole emperor. The victory also allowed Constantine to further consolidate his power and set the stage for his later policies, including the Edict of Milan, which granted religious toleration throughout the Roman Empire.