Unveiling the Past: Roman Customs Stations in Pannonia
Eotvos Lorand University (ELTE) in Hungary, renowned for its archaeological research, delves into the intricacies of the Roman Empire’s customs system through the study of ancient inscriptions. Focusing on the customs station at Poetovio (modern-day Ptuj, Slovenia), located in the Roman province of Pannonia, which encompassed parts of modern-day Hungary, researchers shed light on the individuals who managed these crucial points of commerce and taxation.
Decoding the Lives of Customs Officials
Melinda Szabó, a researcher at ELTE’s Institute of Archaeological Sciences, meticulously examines inscriptions found at Poetovio, piecing together the roles and responsibilities of those who staffed the customs station. These fragmented records provide glimpses into the lives of individuals like Fructus, a slave who held a surprisingly prominent position.
Fructus: A Slave in Charge
An altar dedicated to the goddess Isis for Fructus’s well-being reveals his status as a slave. However, through careful reconstruction and comparison with similar inscriptions, Szabó deduces that Fructus served as the station’s chief, overseeing its daily operations. The inscription, likely erected by one of his subordinate slaves, highlights the hierarchical structure within the customs station.
Mithras and the Customs Officials
Another inscription, dedicated to the god Mithras, reveals the names of several other customs employees. While only fragments remain, Szabó expertly reconstructs the text, identifying Titus Iulius Saturninus, an equestrian-order official, and his slave Attius, the station director. Further analysis reveals the name of Attius’s assistant, Ariomanus, completing the picture of the station’s personnel.
ELTE’s Archaeological Expertise
This research exemplifies ELTE’s commitment to unraveling the complexities of the past. The university’s Department of Classical and Roman Archaeology provides students and researchers the resources and guidance to engage in cutting-edge historical investigations. By studying ancient inscriptions, ELTE contributes invaluable knowledge about the Roman Empire’s administration, economy, and social structures in regions like Pannonia, with its connections to present-day Hungary.
Further Exploration of Roman History at ELTE
Those intrigued by Roman history and the customs system can delve deeper into the subject through ELTE’s academic programs and research opportunities. The university offers courses in archaeology, ancient history, and related fields, fostering a vibrant learning environment for aspiring historians and archaeologists.
Continuing the Legacy of Discovery
ELTE’s research on Roman customs stations in Pannonia illuminates the past, revealing the lives of individuals who played vital roles in the Roman Empire’s administration. Through its commitment to rigorous academic inquiry, ELTE encourages future generations to explore the rich history of Hungary and its connection to the wider Roman world. Contact ELTE today to learn more about their programs.
