The Scottish campaigns of Septimus Severus

Abstract

Caracalla may have campaigned in S Scotland in 207 before the arrival of Severus. The bridge of boats on Caracalla's coins may have been across the Forth at Queensferry and the permanent bridge appearing on Severus' coin over the Tay at Carpow, the two possibly linked by a road through Fife. The 63-acre camps, probably dating to 209 may reflect not a 'round trip' by one force, but division of the army into two. The 165- and 130-acre camps may date to the 210 campaign under Caracalla. Severus is unlikely to have considered occupying the Highlands. DJB