Why did Attila retire from Italy?
In 452, Attila renewed his claim of marriage with Honoria. Once again he invaded Italy and destroyed several cities, including Aquileia, Patavium and, Milan. Aetius was not able to stop him. His allies the Goths and the Vandals would not advance into Italy and they had also suffered great losses in their last battle with Attila and his Hunnic army. Attila was heading for Rome when a desperate envoy sent Pope Leo I to negotiate with him. It was hoped that the Pope with his reputation for holiness could dissuade Attila from attacking Rome. The Huns were not Christians but followed a Shamanic religion. Attila decided to withdraw after listening to the Pope. Why he did so is not known with certainty. It shocked and delighted the Romans in equal measure. Many saw it as an act of God and a miracle. Much credit was given to the Pope and the prestige of the Papacy increased and many Christians saw him as the leader of Rome and not the Emperor. Earlier historians gave the credit to Pope Leo I for persuading Attila to withdraw from Italy. Modern historians have come up with several theories as to why Attila’s retreated from Italy. Among the theories was the hilly country of Italy was not suitable for cavalry and the Huns army was mostly cavalry. The Huns may also have been suffering from food shortages. They had also been away from home for a long period and trouble elsewhere in the empire may have needed Attila’s attention. Then there was also the fact that there was a plague in Italy. This may have persuaded Attila to withdraw from Italy and not to attack Rome.