The Importance of the Sea, Rivers, and Water Resources in the Lazic War (541–562 CE)

Abstract

The Lazic War (541–562 CE), fought between the Byzantine Empire and Sasanian Iran in the Kingdom of Lazica (present-day western Georgia), illustrates the central role of rivers, sea, and water resources in warfare of Late Antiquity. Western Georgia’s abundance of waterways meant that armies rarely faced shortages of drinking water, even during sieges, yet these waterways shaped military strategy in decisive ways. Prokopios, Agathias, and other contemporary authors emphasize the Phasis (Rioni) river and its tributaries as both natural obstacles and vital transport routes. Fortresses were positioned along river valleys, while rivers themselves enabled the movement of troops, supplies, and even fleets. Byzantine and Sasanian armies employed various methods to cross or control rivers, from fording with cavalry and elephants to constructing pontoon bridges or artificially altering river courses to create defensible positions.

The Black Sea coastline was equally strategic. While the Sasanians initially attempted to establish a fleet, their failure after the fall of Petra left Byzantium in firm control of maritime communications. This access allowed the Byzantines to transport reinforcements and supplies by sea, ensuring the sustainability of their military presence. Conversely, the Persians relied on overland routes through Iberia, which created chronic difficulties in provisioning their forces.

Overall, the Lazic War demonstrates how the natural environment—especially rivers and the sea—could shape the course of conflict in late antiquity. Water resources served as lifelines for armies and animals, determined settlement and fortress locations, and provided key logistical and strategic advantages. In Lazica, Byzantine control of the Black Sea coast and effective use of river networks, together with their alliance with the Lazi, proved decisive in securing victory over the Sasanians.