Page "Domitian" Paragraph 27

Prior to becoming Emperor, Domitian's role in the Flavian government was largely ceremonial.

In June 71, Titus returned triumphant from the war in Judaea.

Ultimately, the rebellion had claimed the lives of over 1 million people, a majority of which were Jewish.

The city and temple of Jerusalem were completely destroyed, its most valuable treasures carried off by the Roman army, and nearly 100, 000 people were captured and enslaved.

For his victory, the Senate awarded Titus a Roman triumph.

On the day of the festivities, the Flavian family rode into the capital, preceded by a lavish parade which displayed the spoils of the war.

The family procession was headed by Vespasian and Titus, while Domitian, riding a magnificent white horse, followed with the remaining Flavian relatives.

Leaders of the Jewish resistance were executed in the Forum Romanum, after which the procession closed with religious sacrifices at the Temple of Jupiter.

A triumphal arch, the Arch of Titus, was erected at the south-east entrance to the Forum to commemorate the successful end of the war.