543. Naples surrenders to Totila, who then advances against Rome. Belisarius recalled from the East, after which the Persians again advance and defeat the Romans.
Moors renew the war in Africa; Solomon is slain in battle against them; Sergius, his successor, is incompetent.
Spain invaded by the Franks.
544. Again Belisarius is sent into Italy, but without supplies and with very inadequate forces.
Stotzas, leader of the Moors, defeats the Romans, but is slain in the battle.
545. While Belisarius awaits reinforcements Totila takes Asculum and Spoletum, and lays siege to Rome.
546. Rome is betrayed to Totila; Belisarius is joined by fresh troops, but arrives too late to prevent the capture and pillage.
547. Rome is utterly deserted for six weeks; it is retaken by Belisarius, who repairs the walls.
Ida founds the kingdom of Bernicia, in Northumberland, and builds Bamborough.
Bavaria becomes subject to the Franks.