millarium

A millarium is a type of ancient Roman milestone. These stone pillars were erected along Roman roads at intervals, typically one Roman mile, to indicate distances and provide information to travelers. They were crucial for the efficient administration and communication within the vast Roman Empire.

The term "millarium" derives from the Latin word "milia," meaning thousands, which is related to the Roman unit of distance, the "mille passus" or one thousand paces. The standard interval between millaria was indeed one Roman mile, approximately 1,000 Roman paces. Each millarium usually bore inscriptions detailing the emperor under whom it was erected, the distance to the nearest important town or city, and sometimes even public works or decrees.

These milestones were not merely distance markers; they also served as propaganda, celebrating the power and achievements of the reigning emperor and demonstrating the infrastructure and organization of Roman rule. Many surviving millaria are housed in museums or remain in situ along the routes of ancient Roman roads. Their study provides invaluable insights into Roman engineering, cartography, and imperial history. The construction and placement of millaria were integral to maintaining the extensive network of Roman roads that facilitated military movement, trade, and the dissemination of information.