Christian Topography in the Late Antique Town: Recent Results and Open Questions

Abstract

The study of Christian topography has become increasingly subtle in its appreciation of both textual and archaeological evidence. Despite this, the model established in the 1980s, of an intra-mural episcopal church and extra-mural cemetery churches, seems still to be valid. However, this picture remains provisional; it must not be assumed where evidence is poor. There remain many questions open to investigation. Excavations conducted to a high standard may go some way to resolving these. Nevertheless, urban data remains fragmentary, so historical discussions must remain at the level of models.