The Vandals, Alans, Suevi and other peoples migrated from central Europe to the Roman province of Hispania (modern Spain and Portugal). In Hispania, they came into conflict with the Visigoths, who were allied to the Roman army.
Visigoths in Gaul
AD 418-9
The Romans rewarded the Visigoths with lands in southwest Gaul. Visigothic jewelry originated in the south Russian steppes, but they were assimilated into Mediterranean culture by the time of their conversion from Arianism to Catholicism in AD 589. This included a Byzantine influence.
Vandals and Alans in North Africa
AD 429
The Vandals and Alans were forced to cross over to North Africa in AD 429. They ruled harshly over the inhabitants of the African province. They seized Carthage, making it a base for piracy in the Mediterranean.
Vandals and Alans Sack Rome
AD 455
The Vandals and Alans sacked Rome.
Visigoth Expansion
After the fall of Rome in the fifth century, the Visigoths extended their settlement into Hispania.
Visigoths Expelled from Gaul
AD 507
The Franks expelled the Visigoths from Gaul in AD 507.
Vandal and Alan Collapse
AD 534
The Vandals and Alans were conquered by the Byzantine army. This army included Germanic mercenaries, as revealed by belt fittings found in the eastern Mediterranean.
Visigoths Become Catholic
AD 589
Visigoth Collapse
AD 711
The Visigoths retained control of Hispania until AD 711.