A Latin Honorific Inscription to Emperor Jovian by Themistius, the Praeses of Lycia, at Andriace

Abstract

During archaeological excavations at Andriace, the harbour of Myra, an honorific inscription was discovered in front of the quay structure just north of the granarium (horrea Hadriani). It was prepared by Arrius Paetus Themistius, the praeses of Lycia province, to honour the Roman emperor Jovian with a statue. The discovery provides new information about Themistius, who was introduced to us only by the sophist Libanius, including his tria nomina and unexplored service period in Lycia. It has also led to reconsidering the tenure of the praesidatus of two uiri clarissimi, Themistius and Sozomenus. In this context, addenda et corrigenda are proposed for another honorific inscription to emperor Julian in Andriace. Finally, the administrative importance of Myra and Andriace in Lycia during the 4th century is presented.