Emperor Julian, the last non-Christian ruler of the Roman Empire, led a significant military expedition against the Persian Empire in the 4th century. After taking command, he chose Antioch as his base of operations. Antioch, strategically located in modern-day Turkey, served as a logistical hub for the army and a cultural center for Julian's administration. During the nine months he spent there, Julian focused on preparing his troops, building alliances, and organizing his campaign. His forces were well-equipped and augmented by local resources, facilitating his strategic advantage against the Persians.

Julian's campaign represented a bold challenge to the Persian Empire, which had been a longstanding rival of Rome. His intention was not only to reclaim lost territories but also to consolidate Roman power in the Eastern provinces. He aimed to emulate the great military leaders of the past by launching a direct invasion into Persia. The preparations included not just military drills but also political negotiations, as Julian sought to secure support from local kingdoms against shared Persian foes.

Finally, the months spent in Antioch not only solidified the logistical framework needed for the ensuing conflict but also allowed Julian to foster his ideals of a restored Roman paganism amidst the spread of Christianity. However, this campaign would ultimately lead to a turning point in Roman-Persian relations and foreshadow the heightened conflicts of the following decades.