The African Emperor: The Life of Septimius Severus

Historian Simon Elliott offers a fascinating overview of the life and legacy of Septimius Severus, one of the greatest warrior emperors of Rome.

About the event

Born in the blistering heat of Leptis Magna (in modern-day Libya) in AD 145, Septimius Severus died in the freezing cold of a northern British winter in York in AD 211.

A colossus of an emperor, Severus ruled at the height of Rome’s power. He led the largest army ever to campaign in Britain, comprising 50,000 men, part of a Roman military establishment which peaked at 33 legions during his reign.

Simon Elliott will chart the life of Severus, from his birth into one of the empire’s richest families to the legacy he left all the way from Rome to the ancient ruins still visible in London and York.

Additional information

This event is eligible for our 20% ticket bundle discount.

Book tickets to three or more different events across the festival and you can save 20%. Tickets must be purchased in the same transaction and the discount will automatically be applied within the basket.

About the speaker

Simon Elliott is a historian, archaeologist, author and broadcaster. He has appeared on platforms as varied as History Hit and Channel 5, and has published several books exploring Roman history.