Ex Asia et Syria: Oriental Religions in the Roman Central Balkans

Ex Asia Minor et Syria: Religions in the Roman Central Balkans investigates the cults of Asia Minor and Syrian origin in the Roman provinces of the Central Balkans. The author presents, analyzes and interprets all hitherto known epigraphical and archaeological material which attests to the presence of Asia Minor and Syrian cults in that region, a subject which is yet to be the object of a serious scholarly study. Thus the book both reviews previously known monuments and artefacts, many of which are now missing or are destroyed, and adds new finds, exploring their social and geographical context from all possible angles, and focusing on the thoughts and beliefs of the dedicants and devotees of the particular cult in question. New conclusions are presented in a scientific framework, taking account of the latest theoretical developments.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Geographical Frame and Pre-Roman History of the Central Balkan Roman Provinces

The History of the Research of Asia Minor and Syrian Religions and Cults

Cultural Influences and Romanisation

I. Asia Minor Religions and Cults

Magna Mater

Attis

Sabazius

Jupiter Dolichenus

Jupiter Turmasgades

The Cult of Jupiter Melanus and other Asia Minor Local Gods

Mēn

Artemis of Ephesus

II. Syrian Religions in the Central Balkans

Sol Invictus

Dea Syria

Theos Hypsistos

III. Quarries, Workshops and their Localisation

IV. Palmyrene Funerary Monuments in the Central Balkans

V. Conclusion

VI. Bibliography

VII. Catalogue

VIII. Maps