Definition: The Ostrogoths (possibly meaning "eastern Goths," but also said to be named after King Ostrogotha) were a Germanic kingdom, one of six major Germanic tribes to run things in Europe after the end of the Roman Empire. Like the Visigoths (western Goths) the Ostrogoths traced their history to the Goths, who by the end of the 3rd century AD were located north of the Black Sea. In the mid-4th century, the Ostrogoths were conquered by Huns. After the Hun empire collapsed (when Attila died, 453 AD), the Ostrogoth king Theoderic established a powerful kingdom on the Danube. After Theodoric died, however, the Ostrogoths lost power and that was just about that.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
Examples: Ravenna, Italy (Theodoric's capital)
