Alpes Graiae

The Alpes Graiae (Graian Alps) was one of several small Roman provinces established in the western Alps. Organized by Emperor Claudius, it initially encompassed areas within the Swiss Valais and was intended to guard the Little Saint Bernard Pass. Its capital was Forum Claudii, possibly modern-day Aime, France. The administration of this northern Alpine region, often combined with the neighboring Alpes Poeninae, fluctuated until Diocletian reorganized the Roman provincial system.1

The Romans played a significant role in the region, enlarging existing Celtic settlements and building new towns. They improved infrastructure, including roads that facilitated control of Alpine passes crucial for Roman expansion. However, Roman control in the Alps began to disintegrate around 400 CE, leading to occupations by various Germanic tribes.2