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Which journeys did Polybius make with Scipio Aemilianus?
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Polybius
Polybius, statue in Vienna.
As a mentor and close friend to the Roman general Scipio Aemilianus, the historian Polybius is believed to have accompanied him on several significant journeys:12
- Spain (151 BCE): It is probable that Polybius traveled with Scipio to Spain.1
- Africa: He accompanied Scipio to Africa, where he had the opportunity to meet the Numidian king Masinissa.1
- The Alps: On his return journey to Italy, he is thought to have crossed the Alps, following the path previously taken by Hannibal.1
- Carthage (146 BCE): After his political detention concluded, Polybius joined Scipio at Carthage and was present during its siege and final destruction.1
Following these events, it is also considered likely that Polybius undertook a voyage of exploration in the Atlantic, a journey noted in the works of Pliny the Elder.1