The Urban Renovation of Samaria–Sebaste of the 2nd and 3rd centuries ce: Observations on some architectural artefacts

Abstract

ABSTRACT Samaria, renamed Sebaste after the annexation to Herod’s kingdom, was mostly excavated in the first half of the 20th century. Despite its relevant archaeological heritage, the history of the city is scarcely known. During the Middle Imperial period, Samaria–Sebaste flourished, as is suggested by the renovation of several buildings. Under Septimius Severus the city was granted the status of colonia from which is benefited greatly. This paper intends to reappraise data from old excavations, with the aim to frame the local urban renovation of the 2nd and the 3rd centuries ce in a broader regional context. With regard to this objective, marble/stone trade and architectural decoration will be analysed.