Adapting to Shifting Tastes and Lifestyles: The Roman Phases of a Public Building in the City of Rhodes (20 min)

Presenters

Stella Skaltsa, Queen's University

Abstract

This paper examines the hitherto unexplored Roman phases of a major public building complex located at the eastern foot of the Acropolis of Rhodes. The numerous inscribed statue bases that came to light during rescue excavations in the 20th century underline the significance of this complex as a major honorific hotspot for the Rhodian elite in the Hellenistic period. Yet other finds, notably Roman wall-painting fragments, tableware imports and architectural features, shed valuable light on the afterlife of this complex in the Roman Imperial period. Located in one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the city, close to major sanctuaries and lavishly decorated Roman mansions, the rich material culture of this complex raises questions about the cultural and economic networks of Rhodes during the Roman Imperial period. How did the tastes of the cosmopolitan Rhodian elite evolve over time? What was the significance and function of this complex in its Roman phases?

  AIA-1H