Which journeys did Polybius make with Scipio Aemilianus?

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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