During the reign of Emperor Avitus, the Visigoths expand their influence into Hispania, officially acting under Roman authorization, but in reality, pursuing their own interests.
In 455 CE, Avitus dispatches an ambassador, Comes Fronto, to the Suebi, and later to Visigothic King Theodoric II, seeking formal recognition of Roman rule. However, tensions escalate when the Suebi invade the Roman province of Hispania Tarraconensis.
In response, the Visigoths launch an offensive, decisively defeating the Suebi on October 5, 456, at the Campus Paramus, twelve miles from Astorga, near the Órbigo River (Urbicus). Following their victory, the Visigoths occupy Hispania Tarraconensis, nominally as foederati of the Empire, but effectively asserting their own dominance over the region.