In this study, the author addresses two important issues in Roman
archaeology. On the basis of a comparison of intensive field surveys in
different parts of the Pontine region, central Italy, it is argued that
detailed site and off-site collection strategies have much to offer in
understanding site chronology and land use patterns. Setting the field
survey data in a wider geographical and historical context, the author
also explores the context and impact of the foundation of Roman colonies
and rural tribes on rural settlement systems, as such contributing to
current debates on the nature of early Roman colonization.