When and by whom were the 14 administrative regions of Rome established?

The city of Rome was divided into 14 administrative regions, known in Latin as *regiones*, by Emperor Augustus in 7 BC. This system replaced the four traditional regions attributed to the sixth king of Rome, Servius Tullius.

What was the purpose of dividing Rome into administrative regions?

The primary purpose was to establish administrative subdivisions for the city of Rome. These regions were further organized into official neighborhoods called *vici*.

How did the names of the 14 Augustan regions evolve over time?

Initially, the regions were designated simply by number. However, over time, they acquired nicknames derived from significant landmarks or prominent topographical features located within their boundaries.

Did the system of dividing cities into regions influence other major cities?

Yes, the Roman system of dividing cities into regions was influential. After the reign of Constantine the Great, the imperial city of Constantinople was also divided into fourteen *regiones*, mirroring the Roman model.

What evidence exists for administrative divisions in Rome prior to Augustus' reforms?

Evidence for regions before Augustus is limited. However, Marcus Terentius Varro, writing in the mid-40s BC, described four 'partes urbis' (parts of the city), which he referred to individually as 'regio' and gave them both names and numbers: I Suburana, II Esquilina, III Collina, and IV Palatina.

What were 'vici' in the context of Republican Rome?

*Vici* were official neighborhoods within the city of Rome, mentioned by Marcus Terentius Varro as existing in Republican Rome. They are analogous to modern-day neighborhoods and each had a local official known as a *vicomagister* by the middle of the Republic.

What changes did Augustus implement regarding the *vici* and their administration?

By Augustus' time, the local shrines within the *vici* had fallen into neglect. Starting around 12 BC, Augustus initiated a restoration of these shrines and later, in 7 BC, comprehensively reformed the system, codifying the rights and duties of the *vicomagistri* as part of the reorganization into the fourteen *regiones*.

Who oversaw the Augustan regions?

The fourteen Augustan regions were overseen by senatorial magistrates, indicating a formal administrative structure managed by the Roman Senate.

What does the accompanying image depict regarding the administrative divisions of Rome?

The image is a map of ancient Rome that illustrates the fourteen administrative regions, providing a visual representation of how the city was divided during the Augustan period.

Which region was named after a major city gate and a significant ancient road?

Regio I, known as Porta Capena, was named after the Porta Capena, a gate in the Servian Wall. This gate marked the entrance to the city for the Appian Way, a crucial ancient Roman road.

What geographical area did Regio II Caelimontium cover?

Regio II Caelimontium encompassed the Caelian Hill, one of the seven hills of Rome.

From what did Regio III Isis et Serapis derive its name?

Regio III Isis et Serapis was named after a sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Isis. This region also included the valley where the Colosseum would later be built, along with parts of the Oppian and Esquiline hills.

Which region was named after a temple built by Emperor Vespasian?

Regio IV Templum Pacis derived its name from the Temple of Peace, a significant structure constructed in that area by Emperor Vespasian. This region also included the popular Subura district and the Velian Hill.

What topographical feature gave its name to Regio V Esquiliae?

Regio V Esquiliae took its name directly from the Esquiline Hill, one of the largest hills in Rome. The region included portions of the Oppian and Cispian hills, as well as the area just outside the Servian Wall.

What was the origin of the name for Regio VI Alta Semita?

Regio VI Alta Semita was named after a prominent street called *Alta Semita*, meaning 'High Path,' which ran over the Quirinal Hill. This was a large region that included several hills and valleys.

What were some notable landmarks located within Regio VI Alta Semita?

Regio VI Alta Semita contained significant structures such as the Baths of Diocletian, the Baths of Constantine, the Gardens of Sallust, and the Castra Praetoria (the barracks of the Praetorian Guard). Much of its northern part was covered by gardens.

How did Regio VII Via Lata get its name, and what modern street does it correspond to?

Regio VII Via Lata was named after the *Via Lata*, meaning 'Wide Street,' which was a broad urban thoroughfare. This street corresponds to the modern Via del Corso and ran between the Servian and Aurelian Walls, encompassing part of the Campus Martius.

Which region contained the heart of ancient Roman civic life, including the Forum Romanum?

Regio VIII Forum Romanum was the central region that contained the Capitoline Hill and the valley between the Palatine and Capitoline hills, which housed the Forum Romanum, the main public space of ancient Rome.

What ancient entertainment venue gave its name to Regio IX Circus Flaminius?

Regio IX Circus Flaminius was named after the Circus Flaminius, a large racecourse located in the southern part of the Campus Martius, near Tiber Island.

Which region was named after one of the most historically significant hills in Rome?

Regio X Palatium derived its name from the Palatine Hill, which is traditionally considered the founding site of Rome.

What famous Roman entertainment venue was located in Regio XI Circus Maximus?

Regio XI Circus Maximus took its name from the Circus Maximus, the largest chariot racing stadium in ancient Rome, situated in the valley between the Palatine and Aventine hills. This region also included the Velabrum and areas near the Forum Boarium and Forum Holitorium.

What monument, now disappeared, gave its name to Regio XII Piscina Publica?

Regio XII Piscina Publica was named after the *Piscina Publica*, a large public pool or reservoir that no longer exists. This region also included the area where the Baths of Caracalla were later constructed.

What significant economic activity is noted as occurring in Regio XII Piscina Publica during the 2nd century AD?

During the 180s AD, a bank and exchange specifically for Christians operated within the area of Regio XII Piscina Publica.

Which region was associated with the Aventine Hill and Rome's primary river port?

Regio XIII Aventinus contained the Aventine Hill and the adjacent plain along the Tiber River. This area housed the *emporium*, which served as the city's main river port.

What geographical characteristic defines Regio XIV Transtiberim, and what modern district does it correspond to?

Regio XIV Transtiberim, meaning 'across the Tiber,' encompassed Tiber Island and all parts of Rome situated west of the Tiber River. This area corresponds to the modern district of Trastevere.

What was the traditional administrative division of Rome before Augustus' reform?

Before Augustus established the 14 regions in 7 BC, Rome was traditionally divided into four regions, often attributed to King Servius Tullius. These were sometimes referred to as 'quarters'.

How did the Augustan regions differ from the earlier Servian regions?

The Augustan regions were a more formalized and extensive administrative system, comprising 14 numbered and later nicknamed regions, which replaced the older, traditionally attributed four regions of Servius Tullius. They were overseen by specific magistrates.

What does the term *regio* mean in the context of ancient Rome?

In the context of ancient Rome, *regio* (plural *regiones*) refers to an administrative region or division of the city.

What does the term *vicus* mean in the context of ancient Rome?

In ancient Rome, a *vicus* (plural *vici*) referred to an official neighborhood or street, analogous to modern neighborhoods.

What was the role of a *vicomagister*?

A *vicomagister* was a local official responsible for a *vicus* (neighborhood) in Republican and Augustan Rome, overseeing local shrines and administration.

What was the significance of the *Via Lata* in Regio VII?

The *Via Lata* ('Wide Street') was a major urban thoroughfare in Regio VII, corresponding to the modern Via del Corso. It was a significant part of the region, running between the old Servian Wall and the later Aurelian Walls.

Which region included the *Subura*, a well-known district of Rome?

Regio IV Templum Pacis included the *Subura*, a densely populated and historically significant valley district situated between the Esquiline and Viminal hills.

What was the *emporium* mentioned in relation to Regio XIII?

The *emporium* in Regio XIII was the main river port of ancient Rome, situated on the Tiber River along the plain in front of the Aventine Hill.

What does the reference to Constantinople suggest about the Augustan regions?

The reference suggests that the administrative structure of the 14 regions of Augustan Rome served as a model for later urban planning, specifically influencing the division of Constantinople into a similar number of regions after the Roman Empire.

What was the significance of the Appian Way in relation to Regio I?

The Appian Way, one of the earliest and most important Roman roads, entered the city through the Porta Capena, which gave its name to Regio I. This highlights the region's strategic location at a major entry point.

What does the mention of the Via dei Fori Imperiali in relation to the Velian Hill imply?

It implies that the Velian Hill, which was a significant topographical feature in Regio IV, was largely removed in the early 20th century to construct the Via dei Fori Imperiali, a modern street that runs between the Roman Forum and the Forum of Augustus.

What was the *Collis Hortulorum* and where was it located?

The *Collis Hortulorum*, meaning 'Hill of the Gardens,' was located in Regio VII Via Lata. It is also identified with the Pincian Hill (modern Pincio).

What does the name *Palatium* for Regio X signify?

The name *Palatium* for Regio X signifies that this region was primarily comprised of the Palatine Hill, one of the most central and historically significant hills of Rome.

What was the *Velabrum* and which region did it belong to?

The *Velabrum* was a valley situated between the Palatine and Capitoline hills. It was part of Regio XI Circus Maximus.

What does the disappearance of the *Piscina Publica* imply about the region named after it?

The disappearance of the *Piscina Publica* implies that while the region was named after this monument, the monument itself did not survive throughout the Imperial period, though the region continued to exist.

What was the *emporium* in Regio XIII?

The *emporium* in Regio XIII was the main river port of ancient Rome, situated on the Tiber River along the plain in front of the Aventine Hill.

What historical period does the division of Rome into 14 regions by Augustus relate to?

This division relates to the early Imperial period of Rome, specifically the reign of Augustus, who implemented this administrative reform in 7 BC.

What does the term 'Augustan Rome' refer to in this context?

Augustan Rome refers to the city of Rome during the reign of its first emperor, Augustus (27 BC – 14 AD), a period of significant administrative and urban development.

What was the function of the *Castra Praetoria* mentioned in Regio VI?

The *Castra Praetoria* were the barracks for the Praetorian Guard, the elite military unit that served as the emperor's personal guard. Their inclusion in Regio VI highlights the military presence within that part of the city.

Which region contained the *Forum Romanum*?

The *Forum Romanum*, the political, religious, and social center of ancient Rome, was located within Regio VIII Forum Romanum.

What is the relationship between the *regiones* and the *vici*?

The *regiones* were the larger administrative divisions of the city, and within these regions, there were smaller official neighborhoods known as *vici*.

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The Augustan Reorganization

A New Administrative Framework

In 7 BC, Emperor Augustus fundamentally restructured the urban administration of Rome by dividing the city into 14 distinct administrative regions. This comprehensive reorganization superseded the four traditional regions, or "quarters," that were historically attributed to the sixth king of Rome, Servius Tullius. These new regions, designated in Latin as regiones (singular regio), were further subdivided into official neighborhoods known as vici. Over time, each regio acquired unique nicknames, often derived from prominent landmarks or significant topographical features within its boundaries.

Imperial Influence

The Augustan model of regional division proved influential, serving as a precedent for later administrative structures. Notably, after the reign of Constantine the Great, the imperial capital of Constantinople was also organized into fourteen regiones, mirroring the Roman example. This demonstrates the enduring impact of Augustus's urban planning on the administration of major cities within the Roman sphere of influence.

Evolution of Roman Regions

Pre-Augustan Divisions

Evidence for distinct regional divisions in Rome prior to Augustus's reign is somewhat limited. However, writings from the mid-40s BC by Marcus Terentius Varro describe four primary divisions of the city, referred to as 'partes urbis'. Varro individually names these as regiones: I Suburana, II Esquilina, III Collina, and IV Palatina. Varro also provides insights into the existence of vici during the Republican era, suggesting they were analogous to modern neighborhoods, derived from the Latin word via (road).

Augustan Reforms

By the time of Augustus, the local shrines within the vici had fallen into neglect. Augustus initiated a series of reforms, beginning around 12 BC with the restoration of individual vicus shrines. This culminated in a comprehensive reorganization in 7 BC, which included codifying the rights and duties of the vicomagistri (local officials of the vici). It was during this period that the city was officially restructured into the fourteen Augustan regiones, each placed under the oversight of senatorial magistrates.

The Fourteen Regions

Regio I Porta Capena

Regio I derived its name from the Porta Capena ("Gate to Capua"), a gate in the Servian Wall through which the Appian Way entered the city. This region extended south of the Caelian Hill to the line of the later Aurelian Walls.

Regio II Caelimontium

Regio II encompassed the prominent Caelian Hill, a significant elevation within the city's topography.

Regio III Isis et Serapis

This region was named after the sanctuary dedicated to Isis. It included the valley destined to become the site of the Colosseum, along with portions of the Oppian and Esquiline hills.

Regio IV Templum Pacis

Named for the Temple of Peace, constructed by Vespasian, this region comprised the valley between the Esquiline and Viminal hills, the bustling area of the Subura, and the Velian Hill.

Regio V Esquiliae

The name of Regio V originates from the Esquiline Hill. It included parts of the Oppian and Cispian hills, as well as the plain situated just outside the Servian Wall.

Regio VI Alta Semita

Regio VI took its name from the Alta Semita ("High Path"), a street traversing the Quirinal Hill. This extensive region also covered the Viminal Hill, lower slopes of the Pincian Hill, and the intervening valleys. Major landmarks included the Baths of Diocletian and the Castra Praetoria.

Regio VII Via Lata

This region was named after the Via Lata ("Wide Street"), a broad urban thoroughfare corresponding to the modern Via del Corso. It encompassed parts of the Campus Martius east of this street and the Pincian Hill.

Regio VIII Forum Romanum

The central region included the Capitoline Hill, the valley containing the Forum Romanum, and the area extending towards the Arch of Titus and the Temple of Venus and Roma.

Regio IX Circus Flaminius

Named for the Circus Flaminius in the southern Campus Martius, this region included a significant portion of the Campus Martius west of the Via Lata.

Regio X Palatium

Regio X was named after the Palatine Hill, the legendary founding site of Rome and the location of imperial residences.

Regio XI Circus Maximus

This region took its name from the Circus Maximus, situated in the valley between the Palatine and Aventine hills. It also encompassed the Velabrum and areas near the Forum Boarium and Forum Holitorium.

Regio XII Piscina Publica

Regio XII was named after the Piscina Publica, a public bath complex that disappeared during the Imperial period. It included the high ground near the church of San Saba and extended towards the Appian Way, site of the Baths of Caracalla.

Regio XIII Aventinus

Regio XIII comprised the Aventine Hill and the adjacent plain along the Tiber River, which housed the city's main port, the Emporium.

Regio XIV Transtiberim

Known as the region "across the Tiber," Regio XIV included Tiber Island and all areas of Rome situated west of the Tiber River, corresponding to modern Trastevere.

Further Context

Notes

The descriptions of the regions are based on historical accounts and archaeological evidence, providing a glimpse into the organization of the ancient city.

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References

Lawrence Richardson, A New Topographical Dictionary of Ancient Rome (Johns Hopkins University Press, 1992), p. 6.

Peter Lampe, Christians at Rome in the First Two Centuries (Continuum, 2003), p. 42 online.

A full list of references for this article are available at the 14 regions of Augustan Rome Wikipedia page

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This is not a substitute for scholarly research. The information presented here is not a replacement for rigorous academic inquiry, primary source analysis, or consultation with established historical experts. Users are encouraged to consult original scholarly works and peer-reviewed research for a more complete understanding of the subject matter.

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Mapping the Imperial City

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The Augustan Reorganization

A New Administrative Framework

Imperial Influence

Evolution of Roman Regions

Pre-Augustan Divisions

Augustan Reforms

The Fourteen Regions

Regio I Porta Capena

Regio II Caelimontium

Regio III Isis et Serapis

Regio IV Templum Pacis

Regio V Esquiliae

Regio VI Alta Semita

Regio VII Via Lata

Regio VIII Forum Romanum

Regio IX Circus Flaminius

Regio X Palatium

Regio XI Circus Maximus

Regio XII Piscina Publica

Regio XIII Aventinus

Regio XIV Transtiberim

Further Context

See Also

Notes

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Mapping the Imperial City

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The Augustan Reorganization 👑

🏛️ A New Administrative Framework

🌍 Imperial Influence

Evolution of Roman Regions ⏳

📜 Pre-Augustan Divisions

🛠️ Augustan Reforms

The Fourteen Regions 📍

I Regio I Porta Capena

II Regio II Caelimontium

III Regio III Isis et Serapis

IV Regio IV Templum Pacis

V Regio V Esquiliae

VI Regio VI Alta Semita

VII Regio VII Via Lata

VIII Regio VIII Forum Romanum

IX Regio IX Circus Flaminius

X Regio X Palatium

XI Regio XI Circus Maximus

XII Regio XII Piscina Publica

XIII Regio XIII Aventinus

XIV Regio XIV Transtiberim

Further Context ℹ️

🔗 See Also

📝 Notes

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📜 Important Notice

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The Augustan Reorganization

A New Administrative Framework

Imperial Influence

Evolution of Roman Regions

Pre-Augustan Divisions

Augustan Reforms

The Fourteen Regions

Regio I Porta Capena

Regio II Caelimontium

Regio III Isis et Serapis

Regio IV Templum Pacis

Regio V Esquiliae

Regio VI Alta Semita

Regio VII Via Lata

Regio VIII Forum Romanum

Regio IX Circus Flaminius

Regio X Palatium

Regio XI Circus Maximus

Regio XII Piscina Publica

Regio XIII Aventinus

Regio XIV Transtiberim

Further Context

See Also

Notes

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice