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Valia ValiaKing of the Visigoths.
Country:
 Germany |
Content:
- Rise to Power
- Conflict with the Roman Empire
- Failed African Invasion and Return to Spain
- Alliance with the Romans
- Military Successes against Germanic Tribes
- Establishment of the Visigothic Kingdom of Toulouse
- Division of Land and Cultural Exchange
- Stability and Prosperity in Visigothic Gaul
- Death and Legacy
Rise to Power
In the aftermath of the Visigothic king Athaulf's assassination in 415 AD, several contenders emerged for the throne. Among them was Vallia, who was elected king in mid-September of that year. His elevation suggests his strong anti-Roman sentiments, a trait noted by the historian Jordanes, who described him as a "very austere and prudent man."
Conflict with the Roman Empire
Vallia's policy towards the Roman Empire was resolutely hostile. His election, according to the historian Orosius, was driven by the Goths' desire to break the peace treaty with the Empire. Vallia led the Visigoths on a campaign across Spain, reaching its southern shores.
Failed African Invasion and Return to Spain
Driven by a desire to establish a peaceful homeland for his people, Vallia aimed to transport the Visigoths across the Strait of Gibraltar into Africa, echoing the expedition of Alaric in 410 AD. However, facing treacherous storms, Vallia decided against tempting fate and returned to Spain in late 415 AD. It was during this time that some Visigoths separated and later joined the Vandals in Africa.
Alliance with the Romans
Faced with dwindling supplies, Vallia found himself in a vulnerable position. Roman general Constantius, acting on behalf of Emperor Honorius, approached Vallia with an alliance proposal. Honorius sought to prevent Vallia from breaking the treaty with Athaulf and to secure the release of his sister, Galla Placidia, from captivity. Vallia accepted Constantius' offer, agreeing to provide military support to the Romans.
Military Successes against Germanic Tribes
As a Roman general, Vallia waged successful campaigns against the Vandals, Alans, and Sueves who had settled in Spain. He decisively defeated the Vandal Silingi in Baetica, capturing their king, Fridibald, and sending him to Honorius. Vallia also dealt a crushing blow to the Alans, leaving them so weakened that they were subdued by the Vandal king Gunderic of Galicia, while the Sueves were pushed into Galicia (416-417 AD).
Establishment of the Visigothic Kingdom of Toulouse
In 418 AD, Vallia established the first Visigothic kingdom in Gaul, centered on the city of Toulouse. The settlement of the Visigoths involved a division of property between the newcomers and the existing Roman population. While Roman law decreed that one-third of the land be given to the Visigoths, they ultimately received two-thirds.
Division of Land and Cultural Exchange
Despite the land division, the Visigoths and Romans coexisted, with Romans retaining their own culture and legal status. The lands were not exclusively allocated to one group, and Romans were able to choose their remaining shares, ensuring the best lands for themselves. The division of fields and forests between the two groups was later formalized.
Stability and Prosperity in Visigothic Gaul
The establishment of the Visigothic kingdom in Gaul brought stability and prosperity to the region. Many Romans sought refuge among the Visigoths to escape imperial taxation, and those living within Visigothic territory reportedly prayed never to return under Roman rule. The Visigothic population in Gaul is estimated to have been around 100,000 people.
Death and Legacy
Vallia ruled for three years and died from an illness in late 418 AD. He left behind a kingdom that would endure for centuries, playing a significant role in the shaping of medieval Europe.
