Emperor Valerian's captivity and death under Shapur I of Persia. Roman Emperor Valerian was captured by Persian King Shapur I in 260 AD. Christian author Lactantius claimed Valerian was used as a human footstool, then his body was preserved, dyed red, and displayed in a Persian temple. Persian historian Al-Tabari claimed Valerian was sent to Gundeshapur to build a dam using Roman prisoners as labor.
In 260 AD, Roman Emperor Valerian was captured by Persian King Shapur I, the only Roman emperor ever taken prisoner. Christian writer Lactantius claimed Shapur used him as a human footstool before his body was skinned, dyed red, and hung in a temple. Meanwhile, the rock relief at Naqsh-e Rostam still shows Shapur grasping Valerian by the wrist, and Band-e Kaisar dam may stand as a grim monument to Roman prisoners forced into labor. A haunting chapter of ancient power gone wrong.
Key Facts
- Roman Emperor Valerian was captured by Persian King Shapur I in 260 AD.
- Christian author Lactantius claimed Valerian was used as a human footstool, then his body was preserved, dyed red, and displayed in a Persian temple.
- Persian historian Al-Tabari claimed Valerian was sent to Gundeshapur to build a dam using Roman prisoners as labor.
- The dam is known as Band-e Kaisar.
- A rock relief at Naqsh-e Rostam in Iran shows Shapur on horseback with Valerian standing beside him in imperial regalia, held by the wrist.
- Valerian's son Gallienus never attempted a rescue or ransom.
- Emperor Julian later marched through the same territory without ever mentioning Valerian.
Related site: Band-e Kaisar — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: The Emperor, the Devil, and the Giant: 5 Impossible Ancient Prisoners by Dark5 Ancient Mysteries