remained in Roman hands.[1] The victory went to the Romans only after a hard struggle and a pursuit which forced the Parthians into an armistice. Thence the army moved southward to Seleucia, where it was received in a friendly fashion. Shortly afterward, however, upon the violation of some agreement, the metropolis was stormed by the legions, among them the III Gallica,[2] and much of the city was destroyed by fire. Evidence from the excavations at Seleucia suggests that the assault on the city took place about December, 165, and that there was less damage than we have heretofore suspected.[3] Some place the blame for this violation of faith on Cassius; but many others, including the later historian of the Parthian wars, Asinius Quadratus, say that the people of Seleucia were the first to break the agreement.[4] Possibly the pro-Parthian party had gained the ascendancy over the pro-Roman one. Ctesiphon also was taken, and the palace of Vologases was destroyed.[5]
- ↑ Rostovtzeff, "Dura and the Problem of Parthian Art," Yale Classical Studies, V, 201.
- ↑ Cf. p. 248.
- ↑ McDowell, Coins from Seleucia, p. 234. Coins were again struck about November, 166, and destruction in the main area excavated was relatively slight.
- ↑ Capit. Verus 8. 4. On the capture of the city see Dio Cass. lxxi. 2. 3; Eutrop. Brev. viii. 10. 2.
- ↑ Dio Cass. lxxi. 2. 3; Lucian Bis accusatus 2.
