Syracuse (Second Punic War)

In 213 B.C. Syracuse, then in the hands of the pro-Cart hag in i an faction, was besieged by the Romans, 25,000 strong, under M. Mar cell us, and a fleet under Appius Claudius. The city was defended by a garrison under Hippo crates. The siege is specially notable for the presence in the city of Arch i me des, whose military engines played an important part in the defence, especially against the fleet. During the winter, the revolt of other Sicilian towns drew off a portion of the besiegers, and during the spring and early summer of 212, only a partial blockade could be maintained. Then however, taking advantage of a festival in the city, Mar cell us stormed and captured the upper portion of the town. An attempt to force the Roman lines by a Cart hag in i an relieving force, under Himilco, was repulsed, and shortly afterwards the rest of the city was captured by a ault.