Anicius Auchenius Bassus Roman statesman of the late 4th century Date of Birth: . Country: Italy

1. Early Life and Lineage
2. Family and Career
3. Prefect of Rome
4. Christian Beliefs

Early Life and Lineage

Quintus Aurelius Symmachus Eusebius was a Roman statesman of the late 4th century. He was born in Beneventum, a city of which he later became the patron. He belonged to the Anicii-Acheviani family, with his father being consul in 334 and his uncle, Ammianus Anicius Julianus, consul in 322.

Bassus's lineage made him the "restitutor generis Aniciorum" (restorer of the Anicii clan), as he was the sole male representative of his family for a period before he had children.

Family and Career

Symmachus Bassus married Turrenia Honrata, and they had a son named Anicius Auchenius Bassus, who became consul in 408 and whose son, Flavius Anicius Auchenius Bassus, was consul in 431.

Bassus's career is known primarily through an inscription. He served as a candidate for quaestor and praetor tutelaris. Between 372 and 382, he was proconsul of Campania, where he renovated the baths that were later named after the Anicii.

Prefect of Rome

From November 22, 382, to August 25, 383, Bassus held the prestigious position of Prefect of Rome. During his tenure, he made generous gifts to the populace, demonstrating his wealth and popularity.

Christian Beliefs

It is believed that Bassus was a Christian, reflecting the growing influence of Christianity in late Roman society.