Cannae 216BC

One of the most important moments in the history of the ancient world, the battle of Cannae (216 BC) was the third great victory for Hannibal’s Carthaginian-led forces over Rome in three years. A tactical masterpiece, this battle has provided a model for generals for more than 2000 years.

• Watch the detailed map animation, showing the formations, attacks and development of the battle over three days.

• Listen to the audio commentary and follow the full course of the assault.

• Read the 3000 word historical account of the background, the course of the action and the aftermath to Cannae.

• View the gallery, including photographs of the battle site and paintings and artworks of the generals, soldiers, formations, armour and weaponry. Locator maps show you where the battle happened and charts give you a breakdown of the numbers of forces on each side.

• Try out your knowledge with the battle quiz. Do you know what formation Hannibal’s line took at the beginning of battle? Or how the Numidian cavalry tricked the Romans? Or which cavalrymen didn’t use reins but led their horses with their legs and body weight?

This is history at hand – one of the major events in world history on your device.