The map above shows the main sites of the Dacian wars.

The Romans launched their attack from Viminacium and Drobeta, two forts on either side of the Iron Gates.

The pass at Tapae protected the way to the Dacian capital of Sarmizegetusa, while the gold deposits of the kingdom lay north of the capital.

The Dacian diversionary attack came at a site called Adamclisi near the Black Sea.