The Battle of Carrhae took place in 53 BCE between the Roman Republic and the Parthian Empire. Led by the Roman general Crassus, the Roman forces aimed to expand their territory but faced a well-prepared Parthian army commanded by Surena. The battle occurred near Carrhae, in present-day Turkey. Despite having a larger army, Crassus's forces were defeated due to superior Parthian cavalry tactics and the use of heavy cavalry known as cataphracts. The defeat was significant, leading to the loss of thousands of Roman soldiers and marking a setback for Roman ambitions in the East.