In order to achieve a good perspective on the origins of Roman cities in western
Europe it is necessary to take a look at the general development of Roman cities,
which is done in chapter I. Following this general introduction, which is concluded
with a brief synopsis of the development of cities in western Europe, the cities
of Arles, Trier and Nijmegen are treated more intensively in three consecutive
chapters. Finally these cities are looked at in comparison to the general development
of Roman cities. At the same time an explanation is given for the eventual success
of the city.
One
of the main questions that will be discussed is if there are similarities in
the origin and in the layout of the Roman cities. In order to achieve some insight
into this problem, three Roman cities in Western Europe are treated more intensively.
The cities are presented in three consecutive chapters, each chapter being dedicated
to one of these cities. In each chapter, first a historical outline and a description
of the organisation of the city is given, followed by descriptions of the various
urban structures. After having described the various cities individually, they
are compared to each other. An important element of this comparison is to what
extend general principles seem to have been applied to these cities and how
these may or may not have been an important factor in the success or lack of
success of these cities.
© 2003 B. O. Wegner
bowegner@hotmail.com
