# Valens

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Roman emperor from 364 to 378

Not to be confused with [Valerius Valens](/source/Valerius_Valens) or [Ritchie Valens](/source/Ritchie_Valens).

This article is about the Roman emperor. For other uses, see [Valens (disambiguation)](/source/Valens_(disambiguation)).

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Valens Solidus of Valens, marked: d·n· valens p·f· aug· Roman emperor in the East Reign 28 March 364 – 9 August 378 Predecessor Valentinian I (alone) Successor Theodosius I Regent Valentinian I (West, 364–75) Gratian (West, 375–78) Valentinian II (West, 375–78) Regent Procopius Born 328 Cibalae, Pannonia Secunda (present-day Vinkovci) Died 9 August 378 (aged 49/50)[1] Adrianople, Eastern Roman Empire (now Edirne) Spouse Domnica[2] Issue Anastasia[1] Carosa[1] Valentinianus Galates[1] Dynasty Valentinianic Father Gratianus Funarius Religion Semi-Arianism[3][4]

**Valens**[c] ([/ˈveɪlənz/](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:IPA/English);[11] [Ancient Greek](/source/Ancient_Greek_language): Οὐάλης, [romanized](/source/Romanization_of_Ancient_Greek): *Ouálēs*; 328 – 9 August 378) was [Roman emperor](/source/Roman_emperor) from 364 to 378. Following a largely unremarkable military career, he was named co-emperor by his elder brother [Valentinian I](/source/Valentinian_I), who gave him the [eastern half](/source/Byzantine_Empire) of the [Roman Empire](/source/Roman_Empire) to rule. In 378, Valens was defeated and killed at the [Battle of Adrianople](/source/Battle_of_Adrianople) against the invading [Goths](/source/Goths), which astonished contemporaries and marked the beginning of barbarian encroachment into Roman territory.

As emperor, Valens continually faced threats both internal and external.[12] He defeated, after some dithering, the usurper [Procopius](/source/Procopius_(usurper)) in 366, and campaigned against the Goths across the [Danube](/source/Danube) in 367 and 369. In the following years, Valens focused on the eastern frontier, where he faced the perennial threat of [Persia](/source/Sasanian_Empire), particularly in [Armenia](/source/Kingdom_of_Armenia_(antiquity)), as well as additional conflicts with the [Saracens](/source/Saracen) and [Isaurians](/source/Isauria). Domestically, he inaugurated the [Aqueduct of Valens](/source/Aqueduct_of_Valens) in [Constantinople](/source/Constantinople), which was longer than all the aqueducts of [Rome](/source/Rome). In 376–77, the [Gothic War](/source/Gothic_War_(376%E2%80%93382)) broke out, following a mismanaged attempt to settle the Goths in the Balkans. Valens returned from the east to fight the Goths in person, but lack of coordination with his nephew, the western emperor [Gratian](/source/Gratian) (Valentinian I's son), as well as poor battle tactics, led to Valens and much of the eastern Roman army dying in a battle near [Adrianople](/source/Adrianople) in 378.

A capable administrator[13] who significantly relieved the burden of taxation on the population,[14] Valens is also described as indecisive, impressionable, a mediocre general and overall "utterly undistinguished".[15] His suspicious and fearful disposition resulted in numerous treason trials and executions which heavily stained his reputation. In religious matters, Valens favored a compromise between [Nicene Christianity](/source/Nicene_Christianity) and the various [non-trinitarian](/source/Non-trinitarian) Christian sects,[4] and interfered little in the affairs of the pagans.[16][14][17]

## Early life and military career

Marble bust possibly representing Valens or [Honorius](/source/Honorius_(emperor)) ([Capitoline Museums](/source/Capitoline_Museums))[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

Valens and his brother [Valentinian](/source/Valentinian_I) were born, in 328 and 321 respectively, to an [Illyrian](/source/Illyro-Roman) family resident in [Cibalae](/source/Cibalae) ([Vinkovci](/source/Vinkovci)) in [Pannonia Secunda](/source/Pannonia_Secunda).[18][19][20] Their father [Gratianus Funarius](/source/Gratianus_Funarius), a native of Cibalae, had served as a senior officer in the [Roman army](/source/Roman_army) and as *[comes Africae](/source/Comes_Africae)*.[21] The brothers grew up on estates purchased by Gratianus in Africa and [Britain](/source/Roman_Britain).[22] Both were Christians, but favored different sects: Valentinian was a [Nicene Christian](/source/Nicene_Christian)[21] and Valens was an [Arian Christian](/source/Arian_Christian) (specifically a [Homoean](/source/Homoean)).[19] In adulthood, Valens served in the *[protectores domestici](/source/Protectores_domestici)* under the emperors [Julian](/source/Julian_(emperor)) and [Jovian](/source/Jovian_(emperor)). According to the 5th-century Greek historian [Socrates Scholasticus](/source/Socrates_Scholasticus), Valens refused pressure to offer [pagan sacrifices](/source/Sacrifice_in_ancient_Roman_religion) during the reign of the polytheist emperor Julian.[19]

Julian was killed in battle against the [Persians](/source/Julian's_Persian_War) in June 363, and his successor Jovian died the following February while traveling home to Constantinople.[23] The Latin historian [Ammianus Marcellinus](/source/Ammianus_Marcellinus) relates that Valentinian was summoned to [Nicaea](/source/Nicaea) by a council of military and civil officials, who acclaimed him *augustus* on 25 February 364.[24][25]

*Solidus* of Valens showing Valentinian and Valens on the reverse, marked: victoria augg· ("*the [Victory](/source/Victoria_(mythology)) of Our Augusti*"). They hold together the [orb](/source/Sovereign's_Orb), a symbol of power.

Valentinian appointed his brother Valens *tribunus stabulorum* (or *stabuli*) on 1 March 364.[26] It was the general opinion that Valentinian needed help to handle the administration, civil and military, of the large and unwieldy empire, and, on 28 March, at the express demand of the soldiers for a second *augustus*, he selected Valens as co-emperor at the [Hebdomon](/source/Bak%C4%B1rk%C3%B6y#History), before the [Constantinian Walls](/source/Constantinian_Walls).[26][27][24]

## Reign

A *solidus* of Valens with a pearl diadem and a roseate *[fibula](/source/Fibula_(brooch))*

Reverse of a *solidus* of Valens, marked: restitutor reipublicae ("*the restitutor of the Republic*") and showing the emperor holding a *[vexillum](/source/Vexillum)* and a globe supporting a [Victory](/source/Victoria_(mythology)), who crowns him with a [laurel wreath](/source/Laurel_wreath)

Both emperors were briefly ill, delaying them in Constantinople.[24][28][29] As soon as they recovered, the two *augusti* travelled together through [Adrianople](/source/Adrianople) and [Naissus](/source/Naissus) to [Mediana](/source/Mediana), where they divided their territories. Valens obtained the eastern half of the Empire: [Greece](/source/Greece), the [Balkans](/source/Balkans), [Egypt](/source/Egypt), [Anatolia](/source/Anatolia) and the [Levant](/source/Levant) as far as the border with the [Sasanian Empire](/source/Sasanian_Empire). Valentinian took the western half, where the [Alemannic](/source/Alemanni) wars required his immediate attention.[30][31] The brothers began their consulships in their respective capitals, Constantinople and [Mediolanum](/source/Mediolanum) ([Milan](/source/Milan)).[32][33]

In the summer of 365, the [365 Crete earthquake](/source/365_Crete_earthquake) and ensuing tsunami caused destruction around the Eastern Mediterranean.[34]

The empire had recently retreated from most of its holdings in [Mesopotamia](/source/Mesopotamia_(Roman_province)) and [Armenia](/source/Roman_Armenia), because of a treaty that Jovian had made with [Shapur II](/source/Shapur_II) of the Sasanian Empire. Valens' first priority after the winter of 365 was to move east in hopes of shoring up the situation.[35]

### Usurpation of Procopius (365–366)

Recent tax increases,[36] and Valens' dismissal of Julian's popular minister [Salutius](/source/Salutius), contributed to a general disaffection and to the acceptability of a revolution.[37] With the emperor absent from the imperial city, [Procopius](/source/Procopius_(usurper)), a maternal cousin of Julian, declared himself *augustus* on 28 September 365.[38][39] Procopius had held office under Constantius II and Julian[40] and was rumored to have been Julian's intended successor,[38] despite how he had died without naming one.[41] Jovian, aside from depriving him of his command, took no measures against this potential rival, but Valentinian regarded Procopius with hostility.[42] Procopius met the danger from the new emperors with his own bid for power, emphasizing his connection to the revered [Constantinian Dynasty](/source/Constantinian_Dynasty): during his public appearances he was always accompanied by Constantia, the posthumous daughter of Constantius II, and her mother [Faustina](/source/Faustina_(wife_of_Constantius_II)), the [dowager](/source/Dowager) empress.[43]

News of the revolt reached Valens at Caesarea ([Kayseri](/source/Kayseri)) in Cappadocia,[44] after most of his troops had already crossed the [Cilician Gates](/source/Cilician_Gates) into [Syria](/source/Syria_(Roman_province)). His first reaction was despair, and he considered abdication and perhaps even suicide.[45] Procopius quickly gained control of the provinces of [Asia](/source/Asia_(Roman_province)) and [Bithynia](/source/Bithynia), winning increasing support for his insurrection. Valens recovered his nerve and sent an army to Constantinople; according to Ammianus Marcellinus, the soldiers defected to Procopius, whose use of his Constantinian hostages had met with some success.[43][36]

Having reappointed Salutius, Valens dispatched more troops under veteran generals, [Arinthaeus](/source/Arinthaeus) and [Arbitio](/source/Arbitio), to march on Procopius.[46] According to Ammianus Marcellinus and the later Greek historians Socrates Scholasticus and [Sozomen](/source/Sozomen), the forces of Valens eventually prevailed after eight months, defeating Procopius in battles at [Thyatira](/source/Battle_of_Thyatira) and [Nacoleia](/source/Nacoleia).[47][36] On both occasions, Procopius was deserted by his own following in fear of their adversaries' formidable commanders. Put on trial by members of his own escort, Procopius was executed on 27 May 366.[48] Ammianus Marcellinus relates that Procopius' relative [Marcellus](/source/Marcellus_(usurper)) was proclaimed emperor in his place, but according to Zosimus he was swiftly captured and executed.[47] Valens could turn his attention back to external enemies, the [Sasanian Empire](/source/Sasanian_Empire) and the [Goths](/source/Goths).[19]

Coin of Valens after his *quinquennalia* on 25 February 369, showing the three reigning emperors on the reverse marked: spes r p ("*the hope of the Republic*")

### First Gothic War: 367–369

Main article: [Gothic wars § Gothic war: 367–369](/source/Gothic_wars#Gothic_war:_367–369)

*Athanaric and Valens on the Danube*, [Eduard Bendemann](/source/Eduard_Bendemann), 1860

During Procopius' insurrection, the [Gothic](/source/Goths) king [Ermanaric](/source/Ermanaric), who ruled a powerful kingdom north of the [Danube](/source/Danube) from the [Euxine](/source/Euxine) to the [Baltic Sea](/source/Baltic_Sea),[49] had engaged to supply him with troops for the struggle against Valens. The Gothic army, reportedly numbering 30,000 men, arrived too late to help Procopius, but nevertheless invaded [Thrace](/source/Thrace) and began plundering the farms and vineyards of the province. Valens, marching north after defeating Procopius, surrounded them with a superior force and forced them to surrender. Ermanaric protested, and when Valens, encouraged by Valentinian, refused to make atonement to the Goths for his conduct, war was declared.[50]

In spring 367, Valens crossed the Danube and attacked the [Visigoths](/source/Visigoths) under [Athanaric](/source/Athanaric), Ermanaric's tributary. The Goths fled into the [Carpathian Mountains](/source/Carpathian_Mountains), and the campaign ended with no decisive conclusion. The following spring, a Danube flood prevented Valens from crossing; instead the Emperor occupied his troops with the construction of fortifications. In 369, Valens crossed again, from [Noviodunum](/source/Noviodunum_(castra)), and by devastating the country forced Athanaric into [giving battle](/source/Battle_of_Noviodunum). Valens was victorious, and took the title *Gothicus Maximus* in time for the celebration of his *[quinquennalia](/source/Quinquennalia)*.[47] Athanaric and his forces were able to withdraw in good order and pleaded for peace.

Fortunately for the Goths, Valens expected a new war with the [Sasanid Empire](/source/Sasanid_Empire) in the [Middle East](/source/Middle_East) and was therefore willing to come to terms. In early 370 Valens and Athanaric met in the middle of the Danube and agreed to a treaty that ended the war.[19][51] The treaty seems to have largely cut off relations between Goths and Romans, confining [trade](/source/Trade) and the exchange of troops for tribute.[52]

Portrait head of Valens, or his brother, on a modern bust historically mislabelled as Constantine ([Uffizi](/source/Uffizi))[53]

### Persian War: 373

As mentioned before, among Valens' reasons for contracting a hasty and not entirely favorable peace in 369 was the deteriorating state of affairs in the East. Jovian had surrendered Rome's much disputed claim to control over Armenia in 363, and [Shapur II](/source/Shapur_II) was eager to make good on this new opportunity. The Persian emperor began enticing Armenian lords over to his camp and eventually forced the defection of the [Arsacid](/source/Arsacid_dynasty_of_Armenia) Armenian king, [Arshak II](/source/Arshak_II) (Arsaces II), whom he quickly arrested and incarcerated. The Armenian nobility responded by asking Valens to return Arshak's son, [Pap](/source/Pap_of_Armenia).[54] Valens agreed and sent Pap back to Armenia, but as these events took place during the war with the Goths he could not support him militarily.[54]

In response to the return of Pap, Shapur personally led an invasion force to seize control of Armenia.[55] Pap and his followers took refuge in the mountains while [Artaxata](/source/Artaxata), the Armenian capital, and the city of Artogerassa along with several strongholds and castles were destroyed.[55] Shapur sent a second invasion force to [Caucasian Iberia](/source/Caucasian_Iberia) to drive out the pro-Roman king [Sauromaces II](/source/Sauromaces_II_of_Iberia), and put his own appointee, Sauromaces's uncle [Aspacures II](/source/Aspacures_II_of_Iberia), on the throne.

In the summer following his Gothic settlement, Valens sent his *[magister peditum](/source/Magister_peditum)* (Master of Foot) [Arinthaeus](/source/Flavius_Arinthaeus) to support Pap.[56] The following spring twelve legions were sent under [Terentius](/source/Terentius_(comes_et_dux_Armeniae)) to regain Iberia and to garrison Armenia near Mount Npat. When Shapur counterattacked into Armenia in 371, his forces were bested by Valens' generals [Traianus](/source/Traianus_(magister_peditum)) and [Vadomarius](/source/Vadomarius) and the Armenian *[sparapet](/source/Sparapet)* (general) [Mushegh Mamikonian](/source/Mushegh_I_Mamikonian) at [Bagavan](/source/Battle_of_Bagrevand_(372)) and [Gandzak](/source/Gandzak%2C_Armenia).[57] Valens had overstepped the 363 treaty and then successfully defended its transgression. A truce settled after the 371 victory held as a quasi-peace for the next five years while Shapur was forced to deal with a [Kushan](/source/Kushan_Empire) invasion on his eastern frontier.

Meanwhile, troubles broke out with the boy-king Pap, who purportedly had the Armenian patriarch [Nerses](/source/Nerses_I) assassinated and demanded control of a number of Roman cities, including [Edessa](/source/Edessa%2C_Mesopotamia). Controversy also ensued over the issue of the appointment of a new patriarch of Armenia, with Pap appointing a candidate without the traditional approval from Caesarea. Pressed by his generals and fearing that Pap would defect to the Persians, Valens made an unsuccessful attempt to capture the prince and later had him executed inside Armenia. In his stead, Valens imposed another Arsacid, [Varazdat](/source/Varazdat), who ruled under the regency of the *sparapet* Mushegh Mamikonian, a friend of Rome.[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

None of this sat well with the Persians, who began agitating again for compliance with the 363 treaty. As the eastern frontier heated up in 375, Valens began preparations for a major expedition. Meanwhile, trouble was brewing elsewhere. In [Isauria](/source/Isauria), the mountainous region of western [Cilicia](/source/Cilicia), a major revolt had broken out in 375 which diverted troops formerly stationed in the East. Furthermore, by 377, the [Saracens](/source/Saracens) under [Queen Mavia](/source/Mavia_(queen)) had broken into revolt and devastated a swath of territory stretching from [Phoenicia](/source/Phoenice_(Roman_province)) and [Palestine](/source/Syria_Palaestina) as far as the [Sinai](/source/Sinai_Peninsula). Though Valens successfully brought both uprisings under control, the opportunities for action on the eastern frontier were limited by these engagements closer to home.

[Aqueduct of Valens](/source/Aqueduct_of_Valens) in [Constantinople](/source/Constantinople), capital of the eastern Roman Empire

Obverse of a medal of Valens, set in a later pendant and found in the [Șimleu Silvaniei](/source/%C8%98imleu_Silvaniei), a [hoard](/source/Hoard) from the second quarter of the 5th century ([Kunsthistorisches Museum](/source/Kunsthistorisches_Museum))

### Later reign: 373–376

Valens became the senior *augustus* on 17 November 375, after his older brother Valentinian died suddenly at Brigetio ([Szőny](/source/Sz%C5%91ny)) while on campaign against the [Quadi](/source/Quadi) in Pannonia.[58][59] In the west, Valentinian was succeeded by his elder son [Gratian](/source/Gratian), co-emperor since 367,[60][61] and his younger son [Valentinian II](/source/Valentinian_II), whom the army on the Danube proclaimed *augustus* without consulting Gratian or Valens.[62][58]

### Second Gothic War: 376–378

Main article: [Gothic War (376–382)](/source/Gothic_War_(376%E2%80%93382))

Valens' eastern campaign required an ambitious recruitment program, designed to fill gaps left in his mobile forces when troops were transferred to the Western Empire in 374. Meanwhile, migrations of the [Huns](/source/Huns) began to displace the Goths, who sought Roman protection.[19] Refugees from the former kingdom of [Ermanaric](/source/Ermanaric), unable to hold the [Dniester](/source/Dniester) or [Prut](/source/Prut) rivers against Hunnic invaders, retreated southward in a massive emigration, seeking more defensible lands on the Roman side of the [Danube](/source/Danube). In 376, the [Visigoths](/source/Visigoths) under their leader [Fritigern](/source/Fritigern) advanced to the far shores of the lower Danube and sent requests for asylum to Valens in [Antioch](/source/Antioch).[63]

Valens granted permission for a Danube crossing to Fritigern and his followers,[19] who had allied with the Romans in the 370s against Athanaric's persecution of [Gothic Christians](/source/Gothic_Christians), and, it was hoped, could now be hired to bolster the eastern army. The Gothic troops would have to be paid in gold or silver, but their presence would decrease Valens' dependence on conscription from the provinces—thereby increasing revenues from the recruitment tax. Though a number of Gothic groups apparently requested entry, Valens granted admission only to Fritigern's people. Others would soon follow, however.[64]

Valens' mobile forces were tied down on the Persian frontier, where the emperor was attempting to withdraw from the harsh terms imposed by Shapur and was meeting some resistance on the latter's part. This meant that only *[limitanei](/source/Limitanei)* units were present to oversee the arrival of Fritigern and his Goths, to the number of 200,000 warriors and almost a million all told. The sparse imperial troops could not stop subsequent Danube crossings by groups of [Ostrogoths](/source/Ostrogoths), [Huns](/source/Huns), and [Alans](/source/Alans), none of whom had been included in the original treaty. The controlled resettlement foreseen by the government threatened to turn into a major invasion, and the situation was worsened by corruption in the local Roman administration. Valens' generals accepted bribes rather than depriving the Goths of their weapons as Valens had stipulated, then enraged the settlers by imposing exorbitant prices for food.[65] In early 377, the Goths revolted after a commotion with the people of [Marcianopolis](/source/Marcianopolis), and defeated the corrupt Roman governor [Lupicinus](/source/Lupicinus_(comes_per_Thracias)) near the city at the [Battle of Marcianople](/source/Battle_of_Marcianople).[66]

After joining forces with the [Ostrogoths](/source/Ostrogoths) under [Alatheus and Saphrax](/source/Alatheus_and_Saphrax) who had crossed without Valens' consent, the combined barbarian group spread out to devastate the country before combining to meet Roman advance forces under Traianus and [Richomeres](/source/Richomeres). In a sanguinary [battle at *Ad Salices*](/source/Battle_of_the_Willows), the Goths were momentarily checked,[67] and [Saturninus](/source/Saturninus_(consul_383)), now Valens' lieutenant in the province, undertook a strategy of hemming them in between the lower [Danube](/source/Danube) and the [Euxine](/source/Euxine), hoping to starve them into surrender. However, Fritigern forced him to retreat by inviting some of the [Huns](/source/Huns) to cross the river in the rear of Saturninus' ranged defenses. The Romans then fell back, incapable of containing the irruption, though with an elite force of his best soldiers the general Sebastian was able to fall upon and destroy several of the smaller predatory bands.[68]

Valens requested assistance in Thrace from his nephew and co-emperor Gratian, but ultimately took the offensive before Gratian could join him.[19][59] Leaving behind a skeletal force—some of them Goths—the eastern army withdrew from the frontier, reaching Constantinople by 30 May, 378. The imperial councillors, *[comes](/source/Comes)* Richomeres, the generals [Frigeridus](/source/Frigeridus_(general)) and [Victor](/source/Victor_(magister_equitum)), and letters from Gratian all cautioned Valens to wait for the arrival of the western army, but the populace of Constantinople became impatient at the delay. Public opinion criticized Valens for failing to control the Goths after inviting them into his territory, and compared him unfavourably with Gratian as a military commander.[69] Valens decided to advance at once and win a victory on his own.[70]

*Solidus* of Valens

### Battle of Adrianople

Main article: [Battle of Adrianople](/source/Battle_of_Adrianople)

According to the Latin historians Ammianus Marcellinus and [Paulus Orosius](/source/Paulus_Orosius), on 9 August 378, Valens and most of his army were killed fighting the Goths near Hadrianopolis in Thrace (Adrianople, [Edirne](/source/Edirne)).[19][59] Ammianus is the primary source for the battle.[71]

Valens opened the campaign with arrangements aimed at building his troop strength and gaining a toehold in Thrace, then moved out to Adrianople, from whence he marched against the confederated barbarian army. Although negotiations were attempted, these broke down when a Roman unit sallied forth and carried both sides into battle. Valens had left a sizeable guard with his baggage and treasures, depleting his force. His right cavalry wing arrived at the Gothic camp sometime before the left wing arrived. It was a very hot day and the Roman cavalry was engaged without strategic support, wasting its efforts and suffering in the heat.[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

Meanwhile, Fritigern once again sent an emissary of peace in his continued manipulation of the situation. The resultant delay meant that the Romans present on the field began to succumb to the heat. The army's resources were further diminished when an ill-timed attack by the Roman archers made it necessary to recall Valens' emissary, *comes* Richomeres. The archers were beaten and retreated in humiliation. Returning from foraging to find the battle in full swing, Gothic cavalry under the command of Alatheus and Saphrax now struck and, in what was probably the most decisive event of the battle, the Roman cavalry fled.

From here, Ammianus gives two accounts of Valens' demise. In the first account, Ammianus states that Valens was "mortally wounded by an arrow, and presently breathed his last breath" (XXXI.12). His body was never found or given a proper burial. In the second account, Ammianus states the Roman infantry was abandoned, surrounded and cut to pieces. Valens was wounded and carried to a small wooden hut. He died when the Goths, evidently unaware of the prize within, set the hut on fire (XXXI.13.14–16).

A third, apocryphal, account states that Valens was struck in the face by a Gothic dart and then perished while leading a charge. He wore no helmet, in order to encourage his men. This action turned the tide of the battle which resulted in a [tactical victory](/source/Tactical_victory) but a strategic loss. The church historian [Socrates](/source/Socrates_of_Constantinople) likewise gives two accounts for the death of Valens.

Some have asserted that he was burnt to death in a village whither he had retired, which the barbarians assaulted and set on fire. But others affirm that having put off his imperial robe he ran into the midst of the main body of infantry; and that when the cavalry revolted and refused to engage, the infantry were surrounded by the barbarians, and completely destroyed in a body. Among these it is said the Emperor fell, but could not be distinguished, in consequence of his not having on his imperial habit.[72]

When the battle was over, two-thirds of the eastern army lay dead. Many of their best officers had also perished. What was left of the army of Valens was led from the field under the cover of night by *comes* Richomeres and general Victor.

[J. B. Bury](/source/J._B._Bury), a noted historian of the period, provides a specific interpretation on the significance of the battle: it was "a disaster and disgrace that need not have occurred."[73]

For Rome, the battle incapacitated the government. Emperor Gratian, nineteen years old, was unable to deal with the catastrophe, until he appointed [Theodosius I](/source/Theodosius_I). The total defeat cost the administration important precious metal resources, as bullion had been centralized with the imperial court.[19] Valens was [deified](/source/Imperial_cult_of_ancient_Rome) by *consecratio* as Latin: *Divus Valens*, lit. 'the Divine Valens'.[47]

## Assessment and legacy

The Roman emperor Valens pours money into a coffer, etching by C. Murer after himself, c. 1600–1614.

"Valens was utterly undistinguished, still only a *protector*, and possessed no military ability: he betrayed his consciousness of inferiority by his nervous suspicion of plots and savage punishment of alleged traitors," writes [A. H. M. Jones](/source/A._H._M._Jones), a modern historian. But Jones admits that "he was a conscientious administrator, careful of the interests of the humble. Like his brother, he was an earnest Christian."[15] According to [Edward Gibbon](/source/Edward_Gibbon) (c. 1776–1789), Valens diminished the oppressive burden of the taxes which had been instituted by Constantine and his sons, and was humbly deferential to Valentinian's edicts of reform, as with the institution of *Defensors* (a sort of substitute for the ancient [Tribunes](/source/Tribunes), guardians of the lower classes).[74] Gibbon continues that his moderation and chastity in his private life were everywhere celebrated.[75] At the same time, continuous proscriptions and executions, originating in his weak and fearful disposition, disgraced the dozen years of his reign. "An anxious regard to his personal safety was the ruling principle of the administration of Valens", writes Gibbon.[76] To have died in so inglorious a battle has thus come to be regarded as the nadir of an unfortunate career. This is especially true because of the profound consequences of Valens' defeat. Adrianople spelled the beginning of the end for Roman territorial integrity in the late Empire and this fact was recognized even by contemporaries. Ammianus understood that it was the worst defeat in Roman history since the [Battle of Edessa](/source/Battle_of_Edessa), and [Rufinus](/source/Tyrannius_Rufinus) called it "the beginning of evils for the Roman empire then and thereafter."

Valens is also credited with the commission of a short history of the Roman State. This work, produced by Valens' secretary [Eutropius](/source/Eutropius_(historian)), and known by the name *Breviarium ab Urbe condita*, tells the story of Rome from its founding. According to some historians, Valens was motivated by the necessity of learning Roman history, that he, the royal family, and their appointees might better mix with the Roman senatorial class.[77]

### Religious policy

The Mass of Saint Basil by [Pierre Subleyras](/source/Pierre_Subleyras), ca. 1743

During his reign, Valens had to confront the theological diversity that was beginning to create division in the Empire. [Julian](/source/Julian_the_Apostate) (361–363), had tried to revive the pagan religions. His reactionary attempt took advantage of the dissensions among the different Christian factions, and a largely Pagan [rank and file military](/source/Military_history_of_the_Roman_Empire). However, in spite of broad support, his actions were often viewed as excessive, and before he died in a campaign against the Persians, he was often treated with disdain. His death was considered a sign from the Christian God.

Valens was baptised by the Arian [bishop of Constantinople](/source/Bishop_of_Constantinople) before he set out on his first war against the [Goths](/source/Goths).[78] While the Nicene Christian writers of his time identified Valens with the [Arian](/source/Arianism) faction and accused him of persecuting Nicene Christians, modern historians have described both Valens and [Valentinian I](/source/Valentinian_I) as primarily interested in maintaining social order and have minimized their theological concerns.[79] Although [Athanasius](/source/Athanasius) was impelled, under his reign, to briefly go into hiding, Valens maintained a close dependency on his brother Valentinian and treated [St. Basil](/source/Basil_of_Caesarea) mildly, both of whom supported the Nicene position.[80] Not long after Valens died the cause of Arianism in the Roman East was to come to an end. His successor [Theodosius I](/source/Theodosius_I) made Nicene Christianity the state religion of Rome and suppressed the Arians.

### Appearance

The coin portraits of Valentinian and Valens give the faces of both emperors "heavy features", rendered with "no animation, and little consistency".[81] Toward the end of his *Res Gestae* (XXXI.14.7), Ammianus says that Valens was physically compact, dark-complected, and of average height, "[knock-kneed](/source/Genu_valgum), and somewhat [pot-bellied](/source/Abdominal_obesity)", and had a "dimmed" pupil in one eye (the translator John C. Rolfe suggests that this is a description of a [cataract](/source/Cataract)).[82]

## See also

- [Aphrahat (hermit)](/source/Aphrahat_(hermit))

## Notes

1. **[^](#cite_ref-7)** From the fourth century onwards, emperors and other high-profile men bore the name "Flavius", the *[nomen](/source/Roman_naming_conventions)* adopted by the Constantinian dynasty. It was used only as a status marker,[5] but it's still often included as part of late emperors' names.[6]

1. **[^](#cite_ref-11)** His full name is sometimes given as "**Flavius Julius Valens**".[7] This name is only attested in one inscription from the *[L'Année Épigraphique](/source/L'Ann%C3%A9e_%C3%89pigraphique)*, which also refers to Valentinian as "Flavius Julius Valentinianus".[8] The *[PLRE](/source/PLRE)* mentions this in Valens's entry,[1] but not in Theodosius'.[9]

1. **[^](#cite_ref-13)** Sometimes enumerated as **Valens II**, after [Valerius Valens](/source/Valerius_Valens) (r. 316–317).[10]

## Citations

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJonesMartindaleMorris931_1-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJonesMartindaleMorris931_1-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJonesMartindaleMorris931_1-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJonesMartindaleMorris931_1-3) [***e***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJonesMartindaleMorris931_1-4) [Jones, Martindale & Morris](#CITEREFJonesMartindaleMorris), p. 931.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-2)** [Martindale, John R.](/source/John_R._Martindale); [Jones, A. H. M.](/source/A._H._M._Jones); [Morris, John](/source/John_Morris_(historian)), eds. (1971). ["Domnica"](https://archive.org/details/prosopography-later-roman-empire/PLRE-I/). *The Prosopography of the Later Roman Empire: Volume I, AD 260–395*. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. p. 265. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [0-521-07233-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0-521-07233-6).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-3)** "a semi-Arian [Homoian](/source/Homoian)" – [Lenski 2003](#CITEREFLenski2003), p. 5

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Err_4-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Err_4-1) Errington (2006). *Roman Imperial Policy from Julian to Theodosius* (2006), pp. 176, 186–187

1. **[^](#cite_ref-5)** Cameron, Alan (1988). ["Flavius: a Nicety of Protocol"](https://www.jstor.org/stable/41540754). *Latomus*. **47** (1): 26–33. [JSTOR](/source/JSTOR_(identifier)) [41540754](https://www.jstor.org/stable/41540754). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20230307050740/https://www.jstor.org/stable/41540754) from the original on 7 March 2023. Retrieved 29 April 2022.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJonesMartindaleMorris930_6-0)** [Jones, Martindale & Morris](#CITEREFJonesMartindaleMorris), p. 930.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-8)** Ermatinger, James (2018). [*The Roman Empire: A Historical Encyclopedia*](https://books.google.com/books?id=onlUDwAAQBAJ&pg=PA243). ABC-Clio. p. 243. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-1440838095](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1440838095). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20230326164819/https://books.google.com/books?id=onlUDwAAQBAJ&pg=PA243) from the original on 26 March 2023. Retrieved 18 May 2022.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-9)** ["Tables analytiques de la revue des publications épigraphiques"](https://www.jstor.org/stable/25606700). *[L'Année épigraphique](/source/L'Ann%C3%A9e_%C3%A9pigraphique)*. **1949**: 88. 1949. [ISSN](/source/ISSN_(identifier)) [0066-2348](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/0066-2348). [JSTOR](/source/JSTOR_(identifier)) [25606700](https://www.jstor.org/stable/25606700). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240228050841/https://www.jstor.org/stable/25606700) from the original on 28 February 2024. Retrieved 28 February 2024.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJonesMartindaleMorris904_10-0)** [Jones, Martindale & Morris](#CITEREFJonesMartindaleMorris), p. 904.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-12)** ["Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG, Auction 125"](https://www.arsclassicacoins.com/biddr/#!/auction/lot?a=1788&l=784). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20221112153156/https://www.arsclassicacoins.com/biddr/#!/auction/lot?a=1788&l=784) from the original on 12 November 2022. Retrieved 12 November 2022.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-14)** ["Valens"](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Valens). *[Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary](/source/Merriam-Webster)*. Merriam-Webster. [OCLC](/source/OCLC_(identifier)) [1032680871](https://search.worldcat.org/oclc/1032680871).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-odlavalens_15-0)** Nicholson, Oliver, ed. (2018). ["Valens"](https://books.google.com/books?id=A09WDwAAQBAJ&pg=PA1546). *[The Oxford Dictionary of Late Antiquity](/source/The_Oxford_Dictionary_of_Late_Antiquity)*. Oxford: Oxford University Press. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-19-866277-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-866277-8).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-16)** *[New Catholic Encyclopedia](/source/New_Catholic_Encyclopedia)*, "[Valens](https://www.encyclopedia.com/religion/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/valens-roman-emperor) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210623003017/https://www.encyclopedia.com/religion/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/valens-roman-emperor) 23 June 2021 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine)"

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-ocdvalens_17-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-ocdvalens_17-1) *[Oxford Classical Dictionary](/source/Oxford_Classical_Dictionary)*, '[Valens](https://archive.today/20200708192526/https://oxfordre.com/classics/view/10.1093/acrefore/9780199381135.001.0001/acrefore-9780199381135-e-6658)'

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones1964139_18-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEJones1964139_18-1) [Jones 1964](#CITEREFJones1964), p. 139.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-19)** *[Encyclopædia Britannica](/source/Encyclop%C3%A6dia_Britannica)*,[ancient Rome – The reign of Valentinian and Valens](https://www.britannica.com/place/ancient-Rome/The-reign-of-Valentinian-and-Valens) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240629031538/https://www.britannica.com/place/ancient-Rome/The-reign-of-Valentinian-and-Valens) 29 June 2024 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine)

1. **[^](#cite_ref-20)** *[Encyclopædia Britannica](/source/Encyclop%C3%A6dia_Britannica)*, [Biography: Valens](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Valens) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20201010004017/https://www.britannica.com/biography/Valens) 10 October 2020 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine). Accessed 28 February 2024.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELenski200388_21-0)** [Lenski 2003](#CITEREFLenski2003), p. 88.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-:1_22-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-:1_22-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-:1_22-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-:1_22-3) [***e***](#cite_ref-:1_22-4) [***f***](#cite_ref-:1_22-5) [***g***](#cite_ref-:1_22-6) [***h***](#cite_ref-:1_22-7) [***i***](#cite_ref-:1_22-8) [***j***](#cite_ref-:1_22-9) Bond, Sarah; Darley, Rebecca (2018), Nicholson, Oliver (ed.), ["Valens"](https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780198662778.001.0001/acref-9780198662778-e-4924), *The Oxford Dictionary of Late Antiquity*, Oxford University Press, [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1093/acref/9780198662778.001.0001](https://doi.org/10.1093%2Facref%2F9780198662778.001.0001), [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-19-866277-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-866277-8), [archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20201030163730/https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780198662778.001.0001/acref-9780198662778-e-4924) from the original on 30 October 2020, retrieved 24 October 2020{{[citation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Citation)}}: CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN ([link](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:CS1_maint:_work_parameter_with_ISBN))

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEHughes201320_23-0)** [Hughes 2013](#CITEREFHughes2013), p. 20.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-:0_24-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-:0_24-1) Bond, Sarah; Darley, Rebecca (2018), Nicholson, Oliver (ed.), ["Valentinian I"](https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780198662778.001.0001/acref-9780198662778-e-4927), *The Oxford Dictionary of Late Antiquity*, Oxford University Press, [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1093/acref/9780198662778.001.0001](https://doi.org/10.1093%2Facref%2F9780198662778.001.0001), [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-19-866277-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-866277-8), [archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210806040843/https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780198662778.001.0001/acref-9780198662778-e-4927) from the original on 6 August 2021, retrieved 24 October 2020{{[citation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Citation)}}: CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN ([link](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:CS1_maint:_work_parameter_with_ISBN))

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932848_25-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), p. 848.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEHughes201318_26-0)** [Hughes 2013](#CITEREFHughes2013), p. 18.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECurran199881_27-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECurran199881_27-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECurran199881_27-2) [Curran 1998](#CITEREFCurran1998), p. 81.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEHughes201319_28-0)** [Hughes 2013](#CITEREFHughes2013), p. 19.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEHughes201321_29-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEHughes201321_29-1) [Hughes 2013](#CITEREFHughes2013), p. 21.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932847–848_30-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), pp. 847–848.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEHughes201322_31-0)** [Hughes 2013](#CITEREFHughes2013), p. 22.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPotter2004522_32-0)** [Potter 2004](#CITEREFPotter2004), p. 522.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932849_33-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), p. 849.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-34)** Noel Emmanuel Lenski (2002). *Failure of Empire: Valens and the Roman State in the Fourth Century A.D.*. University of California Press. [*[full citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citing_sources#What_information_to_include)*]

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEErrington200622_35-0)** [Errington 2006](#CITEREFErrington2006), p. 22.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECurran199882_36-0)** [Curran 1998](#CITEREFCurran1998), p. 82.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEHughes201336_37-0)** [Hughes 2013](#CITEREFHughes2013), p. 36.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-38)** ["Roman Emperors - DIR Valens"](https://roman-emperors.sites.luc.edu/valens.htm). *roman-emperors.sites.luc.edu*. Retrieved 19 December 2024.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-:8_39-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-:8_39-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-:8_39-2) Bond, Sarah; Haarer, Fiona (2018), Nicholson, Oliver (ed.), ["Procopius"](https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780198662778.001.0001/acref-9780198662778-e-3882), *The Oxford Dictionary of Late Antiquity*, Oxford University Press, [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1093/acref/9780198662778.001.0001](https://doi.org/10.1093%2Facref%2F9780198662778.001.0001), [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-19-866277-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-866277-8), [archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20201031191045/https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780198662778.001.0001/acref-9780198662778-e-3882) from the original on 31 October 2020, retrieved 28 October 2020{{[citation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Citation)}}: CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN ([link](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:CS1_maint:_work_parameter_with_ISBN))

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932850–852_40-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), pp. 850–852.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECurran199889_41-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECurran199889_41-1) [Curran 1998](#CITEREFCurran1998), p. 89.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEHughes201342_42-0)** [Hughes 2013](#CITEREFHughes2013), p. 42.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEHughes201339_43-0)** [Hughes 2013](#CITEREFHughes2013), p. 39.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEPotter2004518_44-0)** [Potter 2004](#CITEREFPotter2004), p. 518.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932850_45-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), p. 850.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcEvoy2013_46-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEMcEvoy2013_46-1) [McEvoy 2013](#CITEREFMcEvoy2013).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-47)** Lenski, Noel Emmanuel; Lenski, Noel Emmanuel (2002). [*Failure of empire: Valens and the Roman state in the fourth century A.D.*](https://books.google.com/books?id=uvXo39xOV8kC&pg=PA88) University of California Press. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-520-23332-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-520-23332-4).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTELenski1997_48-0)** [Lenski 1997](#CITEREFLenski1997).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932852–853_49-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), pp. 852–853.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKienast2017316–318,_"Valens"_50-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKienast2017316–318,_"Valens"_50-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKienast2017316–318,_"Valens"_50-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEKienast2017316–318,_"Valens"_50-3) [Kienast 2017](#CITEREFKienast2017), pp. 316–318, "Valens".

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932853–854_51-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), pp. 853–854.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932890–891_52-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), pp. 890–891.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932892–893_53-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), pp. 892–893.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-54)** Hughes, Ian, *Imperial Brothers*,[*[full citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citing_sources#What_information_to_include)*] pp. 86–95.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon193293–94_55-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), pp. 93–94.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-56)** ["http://laststatues.classics.ox.ac.uk, LSA-582 (J. Lenaghan)"](http://laststatues.classics.ox.ac.uk/database/discussion.php?id=954). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240626204704/http://laststatues.classics.ox.ac.uk/database/discussion.php?id=954) from the original on 26 June 2024. Retrieved 27 June 2024. {{[cite web](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Cite_web)}}: External link in |title= ([help](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:CS1_errors#param_has_ext_link))

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-AM27129_57-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-AM27129_57-1) Ammianus Marcellinus, *Res Gestae*, 27.12.9.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-AM27121011_58-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-AM27121011_58-1) Ammianus Marcellinus, *Res Gestae*, 27.12.10–11.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-59)** Ammianus Marcellinus, *Res Gestae*, 27.12.13.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-60)** Hughes, Ian, *Imperial Brothers*,[*[full citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citing_sources#What_information_to_include)*] pp. 102–106.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECurran199886_61-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECurran199886_61-1) [Curran 1998](#CITEREFCurran1998), p. 86.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-:2_62-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-:2_62-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-:2_62-2) Bond, Sarah; Nicholson, Oliver (2018), Nicholson, Oliver (ed.), ["Gratian"](https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780198662778.001.0001/acref-9780198662778-e-2105), *The Oxford Dictionary of Late Antiquity*, Oxford University Press, [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1093/acref/9780198662778.001.0001](https://doi.org/10.1093%2Facref%2F9780198662778.001.0001), [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-19-866277-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-866277-8), [archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20201028211058/https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780198662778.001.0001/acref-9780198662778-e-2105) from the original on 28 October 2020, retrieved 25 October 2020{{[citation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Citation)}}: CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN ([link](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:CS1_maint:_work_parameter_with_ISBN))

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTECurran199883–84_63-0)** [Curran 1998](#CITEREFCurran1998), pp. 83–84.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEHughes201360_64-0)** [Hughes 2013](#CITEREFHughes2013), p. 60.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEErrington200626_65-0)** [Errington 2006](#CITEREFErrington2006), p. 26.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932920–923_66-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), pp. 920–923.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932925_67-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), p. 925.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932925–926_68-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), pp. 925–926.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932927–928_69-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), pp. 927–928.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932931–932_70-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), pp. 931–932.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932935_71-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), p. 935.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932934–935_72-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), pp. 934–935.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932935–936_73-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), pp. 935–936.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-74)** *Historiae*, 31.12–13.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-75)** [*The Ecclesiastical History*](http://www.ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf202.ii.vii.xxxviii.html). Vol. VI.38. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20141231223026/http://www.ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf202.ii.vii.xxxviii.html) from the original on 31 December 2014. Retrieved 6 March 2009.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-76)** Bury, John Bagnell. ["The Invasion of Europe by the Barbarians"](http://rbedrosian.com/Ref/Bury/ieb4.htm). Retrieved 15 February 2022.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932856_77-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), p. 856.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932858_78-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), p. 858.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932857_79-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), p. 857.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-80)** [Eutropius](/source/Eutropius_(historian)), *Breviarium*, ed. H. W. Bird, Liverpool University Press, 1993, p. xix.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932[httpwwwccelorgggibbondeclinevolume1chap25htm_Chapter_25]_81-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), [Chapter 25](http://www.ccel.org/g/gibbon/decline/volume1/chap25.htm).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEDayHakolaKahlosTervahauta201628f_82-0)** [Day et al. 2016](#CITEREFDayHakolaKahlosTervahauta2016), pp. 28f.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEGibbon1932861–864_83-0)** [Gibbon 1932](#CITEREFGibbon1932), pp. 861–864.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-84)** Kent, J. P. C.; Hirmer, Max; Hirmer, Albert (1978). *Roman Coins*. London: Thames and Hudson. p. 57. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [0-500-23273-3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0-500-23273-3).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-85)** Marcellinus, Ammianus (1972). *Loeb Classical Library: Ammianus Marcellinus, III*. Translated by Rolfe, John C. Cambridge, MA, and London: Harvard University Press and William Heinemann Ltd. pp. 486–487. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [0-674-99365-9](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0-674-99365-9).

## References

- Curran, John (1998). "From Jovian to Theodosius". In [Cameron, Averil](/source/Averil_Cameron); [Garnsey, Peter](/source/Peter_Garnsey) (eds.). [*The Late Empire, AD 337–425*](https://archive.org/details/the-cambridge-ancient-history-volume-13/mode/1up). Cambridge Ancient History. Vol. 13. Cambridge University Press. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [0-521-30200-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0-521-30200-5).

- Day, J.; Hakola, R.; Kahlos, M.; Tervahauta, U. (2016). [*Spaces in Late Antiquity: Cultural, Theological and Archaeological Perspectives*](https://books.google.com/books?id=mwM9DAAAQBAJ&pg=PA28). Taylor & Francis. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-1-317-05179-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-317-05179-4).

- Errington, R. Malcolm (2006). [*Roman Imperial Policy from Julian to Theodosius*](https://archive.org/details/romanimperialpol0000erri). Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [0-8078-3038-0](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0-8078-3038-0).

- [Gibbon, Edward](/source/Edward_Gibbon) (1932) [1789]. "Chapter XXV–XXVI". *[The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire](/source/The_History_of_the_Decline_and_Fall_of_the_Roman_Empire)*. The Modern Library. [OCLC](/source/OCLC_(identifier)) [564699495](https://search.worldcat.org/oclc/564699495).

- Hughes, Ian (5 August 2013). [*Imperial Brothers: Valentinian, Valens and the Disaster at Adrianople*](https://books.google.com/books?id=H5b9AwAAQBAJ). Pen and Sword. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-1-4738-2863-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4738-2863-6).

- Jones, A.H.M. (1964). [*The Later Roman Empire, 284–602: A Social, Economic, and Administrative Survey \[Paperback, vol. 1\]*](https://archive.org/details/laterromanempire0000jone). Basil Blackwell Ltd. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [0-8018-3353-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0-8018-3353-1). {{[cite book](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Cite_book)}}: ISBN / Date incompatibility ([help](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:CS1_errors#invalid_isbn_date))

- Kienast, Dietmar (2017) [1990]. "Valens". *Römische Kaisertabelle: Grundzüge einer römischen Kaiserchronologie* (in German). Darmstadt: Wissenschaftliche Buchgesellschaft. pp. 316–318. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-3-534-26724-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-3-534-26724-8).

- Lenski, Noel (1997). ["Valens (364–378 AD)"](http://www.roman-emperors.org/valens.htm). *[De Imperatoribus Romanis](/source/De_Imperatoribus_Romanis)*.

- Lenski, Noel (2003). [*Failure of Empire: Valens and the Roman State in the Fourth Century AD*](https://books.google.com/books?id=uvXo39xOV8kC). Berkeley: University of California Press. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [0-520-23332-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0-520-23332-8).

- [Martindale, John R.](/source/John_R._Martindale); [Jones, A. H. M.](/source/A._H._M._Jones); [Morris, John](/source/John_Morris_(historian)), eds. (1971). ["Flavius Valens 8"](https://archive.org/details/prosopography-later-roman-empire/PLRE-I/). *The Prosopography of the Later Roman Empire: Volume I, AD 260–395*. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. pp. 930–931. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [0-521-07233-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0-521-07233-6).

- McEvoy, Meaghan A. (2013). [*Child Emperor Rule in the Late Roman West, AD 367–455*](https://global.oup.com/academic/product/child-emperor-rule-in-the-late-roman-west-ad-367-455-9780199664818?cc=de&lang=en&). Oxford Classical Monographs. Oxford University Press. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-19-966481-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-966481-8).

- Potter, David S. (2004). [*The Roman Empire at Bay: AD 180–395*](https://archive.org/details/romanempireatbay0000pott). New York: Routledge. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [0-415-10057-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0-415-10057-7).

## External links

- Media related to [Valens](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Valens) at Wikimedia Commons

- [Laws of Valens](http://www.seanmultimedia.com/Pie_Valens_Laws.html)

- This [list of Roman laws of the fourth century](http://www.fourthcentury.com/index.php/imperial-laws-chart-364) shows laws passed by Valens relating to Christianity.

Valens Valentinianic dynasty Born: 328 Died: 9 August 378 Regnal titles Preceded by Jovian Roman emperor 364–378 With: Valentinian I, Procopius Gratian, Valentinian II Succeeded by Theodosius I Political offices Preceded by Jovian Varronianus Roman consul 365 with Valentinian I Succeeded by Gratian Dagalaifus Preceded by Lupicinus Iovinus Roman consul II 368 with Valentinian I Succeeded by Valentinianus Galates Victor Preceded by Valentinianus Galates Victor Roman consul III 370 with Valentinian I Succeeded by Gratian Sex. Claudius Petronius Probus Preceded by Domitius Modestus Arintheus Roman consul IV 373 with Valentinian I Succeeded by Gratian Equitius Preceded by Gratian Equitius Roman consul V 376 with Valentinian II Succeeded by Gratian Merobaudes Preceded by Gratian Merobaudes Roman consul VI 378 with Valentinian II Succeeded by Ausonius Q. Clodius Hermogenianus Olybrius

v t e Roman and Byzantine emperors and empresses regnant Principate 27 BC – AD 235 Augustus Tiberius Caligula Claudius Nero Galba Otho Vitellius Vespasian Titus Domitian Nerva Trajan Hadrian Antoninus Pius Marcus Aurelius Lucius Verus Commodus Pertinax Didius Julianus Septimius Severus Caracalla Geta Macrinus (w. Diadumenian) Elagabalus Severus Alexander Crisis 235–284 Maximinus I Gordian I Gordian II Pupienus Balbinus Gordian III Philip I (w. Philip II) Decius (w. Herennius Etruscus) Licinian Trebonianus Gallus (w. Hostilian & Volusianus) Aemilianus Silbannacus (?) Valerian Gallienus (w. Saloninus) Claudius II Quintillus Aurelian Tacitus Florianus Probus Carus Carinus Numerian Later Roman Empire 284–641 Diocletian Maximian Galerius Constantius I Severus II Constantine I Maxentius Domitius Alexander Licinius Maximinus II Valerius Valens Martinian Constantine II Constantius II Constans I Magnentius Nepotianus Vetranio Julian Jovian Valentinian I Valens Procopius Gratian Theodosius I Valentinian II Magnus Maximus (w. Victor) Eugenius Western Empire 395–476 Honorius Constantine III (w. Constans II) Priscus Attalus Constantius III Joannes Valentinian III Petronius Maximus Avitus Majorian Severus III Anthemius Olybrius Glycerius Julius Nepos Romulus Augustulus Eastern Empire 395–641 Arcadius Theodosius II Marcian Leo I Leo II Zeno Basiliscus (w. Marcus) Anastasius I Justin I Justinian I Justin II Tiberius II Constantine Maurice (w. Theodosius) Phocas Heraclius Eastern/ Byzantine Empire 641–1453 Constantine III Heraclonas (w. Tiberius) Constans II Constantine IV (w. Heraclius & Tiberius) Justinian II Leontius Tiberius III Justinian II (w. Tiberius IV) Philippicus Anastasius II Theodosius III Leo III Constantine V Artabasdos (w. Nikephoros) Leo IV Constantine VI Irene Nikephoros I Staurakios Michael I Rangabe (w. Theophylact & Staurakios) Leo V (w. Constantine) Michael II Theophilos (w. Constantine) Michael III (w. Thekla) Basil I (w. Constantine) Leo VI Alexander Constantine VII Romanos I Lekapenos (w. Christopher, Romanos (?), Stephen & Constantine Lekapenos) Romanos II Nikephoros II Phokas John I Tzimiskes Basil II Constantine VIII Zoe Romanos III Argyros Michael IV Michael V Constantine IX Monomachos Theodora Michael VI Bringas Isaac I Komnenos Constantine X Doukas Eudokia Makrembolitissa Romanos IV Diogenes (w. Leo & Nikephoros) Michael VII Doukas (w. Andronikos, Konstantios & Constantine Doukas) Nikephoros III Botaneiates Alexios I Komnenos John II Komnenos (w. Alexios) Manuel I Komnenos Alexios II Komnenos Andronikos I Komnenos (w. John) Isaac II Angelos Alexios III Angelos John Komnenos Alexios IV Angelos Alexios V Doukas Theodore I Laskaris (w. Nicholas) John III Vatatzes Theodore II Laskaris John IV Doukas Laskaris Michael VIII Palaiologos Andronikos II Palaiologos (w. Irene) Michael IX Palaiologos Andronikos III Palaiologos John V Palaiologos (w. Anna) John VI Kantakouzenos (w. Matthew) Andronikos IV Palaiologos John VII Palaiologos (w. Andronikos V) Manuel II Palaiologos John VIII Palaiologos Constantine XI Palaiologos Related Gallic emperors (260–274) Palmyrene emperors (271–273) Britannic emperors (286–296) Trapezuntine emperors (1204–1461) Thessalonian emperors (1224–1242) Empresses Augustae Usurpers Classical Eastern Italics indicates a junior co-emperor, underlining indicates an emperor variously regarded as either legitimate or a usurper

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Valens](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valens) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valens?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.