“Connectivity, Identity, and the Built Environment in Roman Macedonia: A Critical Approach?”

Macedonia, situated on the fringe of the Greek Mediterranean world, is often explored for its unique material culture, the allure of the old kingdom, or the vibrancy of its Roman cities. However, despite its transitional position between the West and East, and the Balkans and Aegean, Macedonia, with its distinctive geography and expansive landscapes, is seldom examined from the perspective of connectivity. Years of archaeological exploration have revealed a terrain not only receptive to new ideas but one that has developed dynamics reflecting its openness to networks extending beyond the boundaries of northern Greece. This presentation aims to define the elements that fostered the enhanced connectivity of the Roman world—such as roads, ports, and people—and to critically examine and assess their impact on the region. A particular focus will be placed on the dynamics of identity and whether these can be reflected in the built environment, considering the methodological aspects/problems of this interpretative model. The discussion will draw on examples from archaeological findings of the imperial period in Macedonia, encompassing both urban and rural contexts. These examples will illustrate different facets of connectivity and often highlight how blurry the lines are between old and new, tradition and novelty, and external influences and local reactions, which sketch the globalization approach