War History Summary 18 - Roman Dacian Wars 5 Fall of Sarmizegetusa

In 106 AD, the Roman army besieged Sarmizegetusa, the capital of Dacia, and launched a full-scale assault. The Dacian army fiercely resisted, utilizing the city walls and mountainous terrain, but struggled to withstand the relentless Roman attacks. The Romans cut off the water supply to the capital and pressured the walls, gradually weakening the defenders. Eventually, Sarmizegetusa fell, and Decebalus fled the capital to the mountainous regions. He attempted to regroup and continue his resistance, but he could not evade the Roman pursuit. Ultimately, to avoid capture, Decebalus took his own life. His death effectively marked the end of organized Dacian resistance, and the Kingdom of Dacia was conquered by Rome. Trajan seized key Dacian fortresses and cities, stationing Roman troops. The victory greatly enhanced Trajan's reputation, and celebrations were held in Rome to commemorate the event. The Column of Trajan in Rome was adorned with bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the war, which remain important historical records to this day.