Development of Gymnasia and Graeco-Roman Cityscapes (4th century BC - 4th century AD)

Wash basins in the lower gymnasion at Priene. Foto U. Mania

Gymnasia directly reflect changes in urban identity throughout Antiquity:
originally sites of physical and intellectual training, they were at the core of formation of Greek polis-identities. In the Hellenistic period they became more private in nature, while gymnasia in the Roman Imperial period largely served as exclusive societies honoring long-standing traditions. Indeed, the development of a formalized Roman bathing culture caused fundamental changes in the role and function of gymnasia. These are reflected in their physical make-up as well as in the forms of representation chosen within their spatial contexts. As such, gymnasia can serve as indicators of changing self-perceptions and social organizations of urban spaces throughout the Greco-Roman world.

This two-day conference provides a diachronic overview of gymnasia throughout the Mediterranean World and thematically discusses their changing role and function. As such it deals with themes of identity formation and consolidation, urban development and cityscaping, concepts of body culture (exercise and hygiene).

The conference provides a platform of exchange for international experts currently working on gymnasia and aims to establish an interdisciplinary forum for developing the larger themes touched on and reflected in the study of these key elements of Greco-Roman urban space.

Program