Legio XV Primigenia

• The Legio XV Primigenia was founded by Caligula in 39 CE.
• It was based at Xanten in Germania Inferior between 43-70 CE. The Legion was destroyed during the Batavian Revolt in 70 CE.

Regimental Details

• Creation Date:
  • 39 CE by Caligula.
• Reason for creation
• Dates:
  • 39-70 CE.
• Fortress Bases:
  • Mainz (Moguntiacum) (39-43 CE)
  • Xanten (Castra Vetera) 43-70 CE)
• Titles:
• Emblems:
• Notable Commanders:
• Structure of the Legion:
  • Roman Legion
  • Roman Army
  • Roman Weapons

Chronology

• Early Campaigns:

Posting in Germania Superior

• 39-43 CE Based at Mainz (Moguntiacum).

Posting in Germania Inferior

• 43-70 CE Based at Xanten with the Legio V Alaudae.
• 47 CE War against the Frisians.
• 47 CE Involved in the construction of Corbulo’s Canal, the Fossa Corbulonis.

Conclusion

• The Legion was destroyed during the Batavian Revolt in 70 CE, along with most of the Legio V Alaudae (which survived).
• The two Legions were surrounded by the Batavi, and had to surrender. When they marched out, the Legio XV Primigenia was massacred.

Castra Vetera, Xanten, Germany