Ilipa
Ilipa is a historical town located in southwestern Spain, approximately eight miles from present-day Seville, situated on the banks of the Guadalquivir River. This area was notable for its rich agriculture and fisheries, as well as its significant silver mines, which contributed to its wealth and were reflected in its coinage. Ilipa is particularly recognized as the site of a pivotal battle during the Second Punic War in 206 BC, where Roman general Scipio Africanus faced off against Carthaginian forces led by Hasdrubal and Mago. Despite being outnumbered, Scipio's strategic use of his troops allowed him to achieve a decisive victory, effectively ending Carthaginian influence in Spain. The battle at Ilipa showcased innovative military tactics and had lasting implications for the region's history. Additionally, centuries later, Ilipa became known as a Visigothic bishopric, highlighting its continued significance in the historical landscape of Spain.
Subject Terms
Ilipa
(Alcalá del Rio)
A town in southwest Spain, eight miles from Hispalis (Seville), on the right bank of the Baetis (Guadalquivir). It became a station for river shipping, and was known for rich agriculture and fisheries (illustrated on its coinage) and famed for its exceptionally rich silver mines, hence its additional designation of `Magna.’
Ilipa was the scene of the decisive battle in the Spanish campaigns of the Second Punic War (206 BC). Scipio Africanus, with 45,000 infantry and 3,000 cavalry, was outnumbered by the forces of his Carthaginian opponents Hasdrubal (son of Gisgo) and Mago; yet, by placing his best (Roman) troops on the wings, he contrived to outflank them. His victory, made possible by his own recently introduced revolutionary training methods, was overwhelming; and he cut off the survivors' retreat. The result was the immediate, total elimination of Carthaginian power from Spain. Many centuries later, Ilipa reappeared as a Visigothic bishopric.