The movie Centurion (2010) is a historical action film inspired by events surrounding the Roman Empire’s conflict with the Picts in Britain. While it takes creative liberties, here are three foundational historical facts that underpin the story:
1. The Roman Empire’s Occupation of Britain
- The Roman Empire occupied Britain (Britannia) from 43 AD to the early 5th century, and the northern frontier was a challenging region to control.
- The Romans built Hadrian’s Wall around 122 AD to mark the boundary of their territory and to defend against northern tribes like the Picts.
- The film depicts Roman efforts to maintain control over this rugged frontier and the resistance they faced from indigenous tribes.
2. The Ninth Legion (Legio IX Hispana)
- The movie revolves around the mysterious fate of the Ninth Legion, which historically disappears from records after the early 2nd century.
- Some historians speculate that the Ninth was destroyed during a military campaign in Britain, possibly against the Picts, although its actual fate is debated.
- Centurion dramatizes this theory by portraying the Ninth Legion as being ambushed and decimated during a campaign beyond the Roman frontier.
3. The Picts and Guerrilla Warfare
- The Picts were a confederation of tribes in what is now Scotland, known for their fierce resistance to Roman rule.
- They used guerrilla tactics, taking advantage of their knowledge of the terrain to attack Roman forces.
- The movie showcases the Picts’ resilience and strategic warfare, emphasizing their role in making northern Britain nearly impossible for the Romans to conquer.
Note: While the film draws from historical elements, much of its narrative, including specific characters and events, is fictionalized. The mysterious disappearance of the Ninth Legion remains a popular subject of speculation and storytelling.