Alania

The Caucasus in 1245, with Alanen (Alania) in the northwest.

Alania was a medieval kingdom of the Iranian Alans (proto-Ossetians) that flourished in the Northern Caucasus, roughly in the location of latter-day Circassia, Chechnya, Ingushetia, and modern North Ossetia–Alania, from its independence from the Khazars in the late 9th century until its destruction by the Mongol invasion in 1238–39. Its capital was Maghas, and it controlled a vital trade route through the Darial Pass. The kingdom reached its peak in the 11th century, under the rule of king Durgulel.

Alania in Agent of Byzantium

Alania was an important principality in the Caucasus since the major passes into the steppes were located in its territory. Both the Roman and Persian Empires conspired against each other there since the ruler could permit the nomads to enter and direct them against one empire or the other. In Etos Kosmou 6829 (AD 1320) Basil Argyros was sent to Alania to investigate Persian meddling with Prince Goarios, its ruler.