In many western cultures legal activities are accommodated within purpose-built structures, most commonly, the courthouse. While within Roman culture some building types were linked with specific activities, the assignation of a specific structure type for legal activities only, such as preliminary hearings, arbitrations, and trials, did not occur. Using ancient evidence (literary texts, artistic representations, material remains) and virtual reality 3D modeling, we will explore the locations at which the inhabitants of Roman communities sought resolution to their disputes. Through such examination, a new appreciation of what is, and is not yet, known about the Roman legal system emerges.
Dr. Leanne Bablitz, University of British Columbia.