The frontiers of the Roman empire together form the largest monument of
one of the world's greatest states. They stretch for some 7,500km
through 20 countries which encircle the Mediterranean Sea. The remains
of these frontiers have been studied by visitors and later by
archaeologists for several centuries. Many of the inscriptions and
sculpture, weapons, pottery and artefacts created and used by the
soldiers and civilians who lived on the frontier can be seen in museums.
Equally evocative of the lost might of Rome are the physical remains of
the frontiers themselves. The aim of this series of books is not only to
inform the interested visitor about the history of the frontiers but to
act as a guidebook as well. The province of Dacia had a relatively short
life being abandoned due to economic and strategic reasons in the 260s.
It was heavily militarized and therefore the role of the army was
crucial in Its development and life. The Roman frontier In Dacia
combined several elements, each relating to the landscape: there were
riverain and mountain borders, some supplemented by linear barriers, and
all connected by roads. Everywhere, the complex system of the border
consisted primarily of a network of watchtowers, smaller or larger forts
and artificial earthen ramparts or stone walls.
