Pannonia Secunda

Pannonia Secunda was one of the provinces of the Roman Empire. It was formed in 296 AD, during the reign of Emperor Diocletian. The capital of the province was Sirmium (today Sremska Mitrovica). Pannonia Secunda comprised parts of present-day Serbia, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

History


Prior to the establishment of this province, its territory was part of the province of Pannonia Inferior. In 296 AD, Pannonia Inferior was divided into two separate provinces: Pannonia Secunda in the south and Pannonia Valeria in the north. The River Drava served as the border between the two newly created provinces.

The capital of Pannonia Secunda, Sirmium, held a prestigious status as one of the four capitals of the Roman Empire. Notably, several Roman emperors were born in or near this city, highlighting its significance in the empire's history.

In 314 AD, a pivotal battle took place between two rival claimants to the imperial throne, Constantine the Great and Licinius, in the province of Pannonia Secunda, near the town of Cibalae. Despite being outnumbered, with an army of 20,000 men against Licinius' 35,000, Constantine emerged victorious after a fierce battle that lasted the entire day.

During the 5th century, the province was raided several times, by migrating peoples, including Huns and Goths. During the 6th century, the territory was contested between the Ostrogoths, Gepids, Langobards, Avars, and the Byzantine Empire.

Cities


Besides Sirmium, the other cities in Pannonia Secunda were:
 * Mursa (today Osijek)
 * Certissa (today Đakovo)
 * Marsonia (today Slavonski Brod)
 * Cibalae (today Vinkovci)
 * Bassianae (today Donji Petrovci)
 * Cuccium (today Ilok)
 * Saldae (today Posavski Podgajci)
 * Teutoburgium (today Dalj)

Prefects
Among the prefects of Pannonia Secunda:
 * Aprikanus (355)
 * Mesala (373)
 * Aurelius Victor, prefect of Pannonia Secunda under Emperor Julian.