The morphology of Roman Lydda

The Graeco-Roman world was more urbanized than any other ancient society. There is, however, relatively little information on the morphology (= physical form and structure) of cities or towns during this time. We attempt to determine the boundaries, form, structure, and urban development of Lydda, an important city in Roman Palestine. To the extent possible, the city is broken down into its component parts, precincts and neighbourhoods. An effort is also made to locate individual structures and buildings. Use is made of the sparse archaeological material of the site as well as literary traditions. Particular attention is paid to Talmudic sources and an attempt is made to show that a cautious use of this material can be of great value in the study of the morphology of the cities of Roman Palestine.