La via Aurelia da Roma a Cosa

<p>The Via Aurelia, a cornerstone of Roman infrastructure, has long captivated scholars of ancient topography. Since the seminal 1968 study by the Institute of Ancient Topography at Sapienza University, research has predominantly focused on the first centuries of its life. This book offers a comprehensive examination of the Via Aurelia''s stretch from Rome to Cosa, traversing the coastal expanse of southern Etruria. It uniquely integrates diverse sources – archaeological findings, ancient itineraries and sources, historical cartography, aerial photography and literary accounts – to present a holistic view of the road''s evolution over time.</p> <p><br> </p> <p>Challenging the traditionally pessimistic portrayal by Rutilius Namatianus in the early fifth century AD, the study reveals a more nuanced narrative of the Via Aurelia''s post-classical usage. Recent archaeological discoveries illuminate continued activity along the route, suggesting resilience and adaptation rather than decline. Employing both established methods of ancient topography and innovative approaches to historical mobility, the volume critically integrates sources like the Tabula Peutingeriana, moving beyond prior schematic interpretations. By disentangling fieldwork evidence from earlier conjectures, it reconstructs a dynamic landscape of movement and interaction in the Roman and early medieval world.</p> <p><br> </p> <p>This work not only redefines our understanding of the Via Aurelia''s historical significance but also contributes to broader discussions on infrastructure, connectivity, and cultural transformation in antiquity. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Roman roads and their role in shaping the socio-economic fabric of the regions they traversed.</p>