10 Barbarian Tribes That Brought Terror To Europe

In ancient times, the term “barbarian” was used to categorize groups that were not part of the established European civilizations, like the Greeks and Romans. This label often extended to those considered un-Christian or uncivilized, further reinforcing the divide between “us” and “them.” While the Huns, Mongols, and Vikings often dominate discussions about barbarian invasions, numerous other tribes played pivotal roles in shaping European history through their incursions and raids. Here’s a look at 10 lesser-known barbarian tribes that left their mark on Europe.

1. The Goths

The Goths were among the most significant barbarian tribes that influenced the fall of the Roman Empire. Split into two main branches—the Visigoths and the Ostrogoths—they invaded Roman territories multiple times. The Visigoths famously sacked Rome in 410 CE under King Alaric I, signaling the dramatic decline of Roman power in Western Europe. Their eventual settlement in modern-day Spain established a kingdom that lasted for centuries.

2. The Vandals

Emerging from what is now modern-day Poland, the Vandals migrated southwards and crossed into Roman territories. Under King Genseric, they captured Carthage in 439 CE, creating a strong naval power that terrorized Mediterranean trade routes. The term “vandalism” originates from this tribe’s sacking of Rome in 455 CE, showcasing the lasting impact of their raids.

3. The Franks

While ultimately becoming a foundational civilization in Europe, the Franks began as a collection of pagan tribes that raided Roman and neighboring lands. Under leaders like Clovis I, they expanded their territory dramatically, leading to the formation of what would become the Medieval Kingdom of France. Their aggressive expansion and conversion to Christianity were significant shifts in the European landscape.

4. The Saxons

The Saxons were a Germanic tribe that initially lived in what is now Germany and later migrated to Britain. Their raids against the Roman Empire were notorious, and they were also responsible for establishing several kingdoms in Britain during the Early Medieval period. The conflicts between the Anglo-Saxons and the Vikings would further mold the history of England.

5. The Alans

The Alans were a nomadic people of Iranian origin who settled in Western Europe after displacing the Vandals. They played crucial roles in various migrations and invasions throughout the Roman Empire, particularly during the 5th century CE. Known for their horse-riding skills, they contributed to the destabilization of Roman territories and were involved in the sacking of several cities.

6. The Avars

The Avars were a nomadic group originally from Central Asia who settled in Eastern Europe during the 6th century. They established a powerful empire in the Balkans, frequently raiding territories of the Byzantine Empire and influencing Slavic peoples. Their prowess in warfare and strategic alliances made them a formidable threat.

7. The Magyars

Emerging in the late 9th century, the Magyars migrated from the Ural Mountains into Central Europe, where they terrorized the peoples of modern-day Hungary and beyond. They conducted numerous raids across Europe, often attacking Germany and Italy. Eventually, they settled in the Carpathian Basin, establishing the Kingdom of Hungary by the end of the 10th century.

8. The Lombards

The Lombards migrated from Scandinavia and settled in Northern Italy during the 6th century. Their invasions contributed to the decline of the Roman Empire’s control over the region. Their kingdom in Italy lasted until Charlemagne conquered it in 774 CE, but their legacy influenced the future political landscape of Italy.

9. The Suebi

The Suebi were a group of Germanic tribes known for their significant role in the fragmentation of the Western Roman Empire. They invaded Hispania and established a kingdom in modern-day Portugal and Spain, where they resisted Romanization longer than most other tribes. They were eventually absorbed into the Visigothic kingdom but left a lasting cultural and political imprint.

10. The Teutons

The Teutons were a Germanic tribe that, alongside the Cimbri, invaded the Roman Empire in the late 2nd century BCE. Notably, they were defeated by Roman General Gaius Marius in the Battle of Aquae Sextiae in 102 BCE. This victory was pivotal for Rome as it marked a turning point in the struggle against barbarian incursions, showcasing the persistent threat these tribes posed.