Tutti gli uomini del Princeps : paesaggio e potere ai confini orientali di Roma

This paper aims to analyse the interplay between landscape and power in the eastern sector of the Esquiline Hill in Rome (1st BCE – 3rd CE). Attention will first be directed to the urban and monumental growth of this area at the beginning to the Empire emphasizing Augustus’ involvement in this development. To demonstrate the political and ideological significance this area acquired for the Princeps and his successors, the focus will then be turned to the private residences on the edge of the city (horti Romani) in an attempt to offer a political interpretation of the land distribution among the emperors’ entourage. The paper has a twofold goal: to demonstrate the interest of the emperors in controlling and acquiring this area, including through donations and confiscations of land; and to analyse the ways in which emperors and their supporters shaped the Esquiline into a Landscape of Power.