Abstract:

Although centuriation was only one form of Roman land division system, its impact on the landscape and visibility in modern land arrangements make it the most commonly recognised expression of Roman landscapes. Centuriated grid systems have usually been analysed from a materialistic point of view and consequently regarded as an expression of Roman dominance over conquered territories. In this sense, their productive function is clear. Tarraco was the ancient capital of the Roman province of Tarraconensis. Its hinterland, offers one of the most clearly documented examples of multiple grid centuriated systems. The wide array of digital and field methodologies employed is essential for documenting the traces of centuriated land divisions and their Roman origin. Most importantly, these methods have also allowed research to move beyond the pure description of the traces to explore the concepts and ideas behind the making of a centuriated landscape. By using Tarraco as a case study this article shows how centuriations were not only a system for dividing the land but also a conceptual appropriation of the landscape based on a strong mythical and religious background.