Massilia as an Ally of Rome

[Epictetus]

I think a precise date may be a little difficult to pin down. (Although someone may come along and correct me. :wink: ) Rome's relationship with many 'independent' states was quite complex. Rome had been friendly with Massilia since probably the 5th century B.C. (see Strabo 5.1.4 and Justin 43.5). In 389 a treaty was made between the two that resulted in a formal alliance. Visitors from Massilia to Rome were granted certain privileges, such as the right of public hospitality (see Justin 43.5.10). In later times it was indebted to both Caesar and Pompey during the civil war and seemed to consider both men as patrons of their city (see Caesar's Civil War 1.34+).

So during a very long period it was probably nominally independent although under the protection of Rome. So perhaps one could argue that it was a formal ally (to some degree) from about 389 to 49 B.C., after which it was subdued in the civil war.