RomaViterbos

RomaViterbos is a term that has emerged in discussions surrounding Roman history and archaeology, often referring to the broader cultural and historical sphere encompassing the city of Rome and its immediate surrounding territories, particularly in the region historically known as Tuscia, which includes Viterbo. This designation is not a formal historical or archaeological designation but rather a conceptual one used by some scholars to highlight the interconnectedness of the urban center of Rome with its hinterland.

The importance of this relationship lies in the fact that Rome, as a major political and economic power throughout antiquity and the Middle Ages, relied heavily on the resources and manpower from its surrounding regions. The agricultural produce, building materials, and even soldiers from these areas were crucial for the sustenance and expansion of the Roman state. The city of Viterbo, with its strategic location and historical significance, particularly during the medieval period when it served as a papal residence, is representative of the key settlements within this wider Roman sphere of influence.

By using terms like RomaViterbos, scholars aim to move beyond a purely city-centric view of history and acknowledge the dynamic interplay between urban centers and their rural or semi-urban peripheries. This approach encourages a more holistic understanding of the economic, social, and political structures that supported and were shaped by the presence of Rome and its influential neighboring towns. The study of RomaViterbos, therefore, involves examining the movement of goods, people, and ideas between Rome and places like Viterbo, contributing to a richer narrative of regional history.