Analysis busts myths of Roman road network
4 hours ago
- New analysis of the Roman road network debunks the myth that all roads lead to Rome, revealing Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) and other cities were more central.
- Rome was politically and economically central but geographically better connected to Mediterranean shipping than to the road system.
- The most central path passed through North Africa, modern-day Turkey, Antioch, Ankara, Constantinople, then north of Rome through Milan.
- The study used the Itiner-e digital atlas with nearly 300,000 km of roads, but only 2.7% have certainty in location.
- Roman roads were not uniformly straight; engineers adapted to terrain, building straight roads only where topography allowed.
- Many modern major roads follow Roman routes, but many labeled 'Roman roads' are not actually Roman.
- 'All roads lead to Rome' is a medieval proverb, not an ancient one, reinforced by the communication system centered on Rome.
- The research provides reusable data and deeper insight into ancient trade, religious beliefs, and disease spread.