"Res publica Camunnorum": a Small Roman Republic in the Alps

Abstract

Валь-Камоника является одной из самых больших долин в центральных Альпах. В I в. эта территория была интегрирована в римскую систему государственного управления. Данные археологических раскопок показывают высокую степень романизации этой территории. Valle Camonica is a valley located in the central Alps. It was the place where the Camunian civilization developed. The Romans conquered the area in 16 B.C. and subdued the population of the Camunni. In the 1st century the Camunni were well integrated into Roman system, gained the Roman citizenship. They were assigned to the Quirina tribus and gained administrative autonomy with the institution of a republic: the res publica Camunnorum. Archaeological finds show a well Romanized population: the city of Cividate Camuno became the Roman centre of the valley, with the construction of a forum, thermae, theater, amphitheater and necropolis. Among Camunni citizens there were magistrates like duumviri, aediles, quaestors, while in military many men served in Roman army in many locations of the Empire.