Map: Battle of Cannae (216 BCE) – Deployment & Initial Attack

A map of the first phase of the Battle of Cannae, one of the most decisive engagements of the Second Punic War between Hannibal’s Carthaginian army and Rome’s legions in 216 BCE. The map shows the strategic deployment of the Roman and Allied infantry, flanked by cavalry units under consuls Varro and Aemilius Paullus, facing Hannibal’s diverse multinational force of Iberians, Celts, Numidians, and Libyans. Key tactical formations, such as the crescent-shaped Carthaginian infantry center, the elite cavalry under Hasdrubal, and Numidian skirmishers under Mago, are clearly marked. The map highlights the pivotal encirclement maneuver that led to Rome's catastrophic defeat, showcasing the beginning of Hannibal’s famed double envelopment tactic.