In 1084, Norman forces under Robert Guiscard sacked Rome, rescuing Pope Gregory VII but leaving the city in ruins after clashing with Emperor Henry IV.
The Sack of Rome in 1084: Robert Guiscard and the Norman Invasion
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Medieval Warfare
The Saracen Raids on Rome: The 9th-Century Threat to the Eternal City
In the 9th century, Saracen raiders attacked Rome, threatening the city’s security and prompting the fortification of the Vatican and the rise of new defenses.
The Gothic War and the Devastation of Rome (535–554 CE)
During the Gothic War (535–554 CE), Rome changed hands multiple times between the Byzantines and Ostrogoths, leading to its near-total destruction.
