Battle of Ani explained

Conflict:Battle of Ani
Partof:Armenian-Byzantine Wars
Date:1042
Place:Ani
Result:Armenian victory
Combatant1: Kingdom of Armenia
Combatant2: Byzantine Empire
Commander1: Vahram Pahlavouni
Commander2: Constantine IX
Strength1:
  • 30,000 infantry
  • 20,000 cavalry
Strength2:100,000[1]

The Battle of Ani was fought between the forces of the Kingdom of Armenia under Vahram Pahlavouni and the Byzantine Empire in 1042. The Byzantine Empire was soundly defeated, with up to 20,000 dead.[2]

Background

Vahram selected a body of 30,000 infantry and 20,000 cavalry, forming three divisions, which fought against the Byzantines, numbering 100,000. A battle ensued in which the invaders were routed with great slaughter. The fight was so ferocious that the effusion of blood flowing into the Akhurian River is said to have coloured its waters completely red.

The Byzantines were defeated. This victory allowed Vahram Pahlavuni along with Catholicos Petros Getadarts to crown Gagik II king of Armenia and subsequently take the fortress of Ani, which had been in the hands of Vest Sarkis.

See also

Sources

Notes and References

  1. Tupper, p. 161.
  2. Macler, p. 165.