Willows, Battle of the

The Battle of the Willows (377) takes place at a place called ad Salices ("town by the willows") in Moesia, present day Bulgaria, although its exact location is unknown.

Forces from the Western Roman Empire under the command of Richomeres advance westward, while forces of the Eastern Roman Empire under Traianus and Profuturus advance northward where they join forces to attack the Goths who had recently rebelled under command of Fritigern and are laying waste to the northern Balkans.

It is the first major conflict of the Gothic War and both sides are ready to prove their merit.The only extant description comes from Ammianus, who leaves few details; he gives a lengthy description of the dead and dying, but no information on the number of combatants.

At one point the Roman left wing gives way, but it is re-enforced and holds.

The battle ends with nightfall.

The result is a bloody draw with both sides taking many losses; the Goths remain encamped behind their war-wagon circle for over a week after the battle.

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