The Changing Landscape of Ancient Rome. Archaeology and History of the Palatine Hill from Coursera

Studying ancient - as well as medieval or modern - cities basically means telling local urban stories based on the reconstruction of changing landscapes through the centuries. Given the fragmentary nature of archaeological evidence, it is necessary to create new images that would give back the physical aspect of the urban landscape and that would bring it to life again. We are not just content with analyzing the many elements still visible of the ancient city. The connections between objects and architectures, visible and non visible buildings, which have been broken through time have to be rejoined, to acknowledge the elements that compose the urban landscape.

Landscape and its content are a very relevant and still vital part of any national cultural heritage. The course will introduce students to the way we have been reflecting on over the last twenty years and still are engaged with the study of the past of our cities, beginning from the most complex case in the ancient Mediterranean World: the core of Italy and of Roman Empire. On the other hand, knowledge means also preservation and defense of material remains and cultural memory.

“The Changing Landscape of Ancient Rome. Archeology and History of the Palatine Hill” presents to a large public the topographical lay-out of the most relevant part of the city (according the Greek and Roman Historians Rome was founded on the Palatine). Research developed on the Palatine since the end of last century by the team of Sapienza Classical Archaeologists opened a new phase in the urban archaeological investigation and in the scientific debate about the relation between archaeological features and literary tradition as well as the “correct use“ of both kind of evidence, key issues of wide archaeological and historical significance.

What's inside

Syllabus

From ruins to a full evidence local history (methods, procedures, tools)

As a welcome module, the course will start discussing how we can move back through time and space to draw an updated archeological chart of the Palatine, to be integrated when possible with missing or lost part of the ancient overall framework, in order to be turned into the basic tool for describing diachronically architectural and topographical continuity and discontinuity. This aiming at the reconstructions of sequences of facts and at a historical reconstruction tout-court. By the end of this module you will able to: - classify archaeological evidence - draw an archaeological chart - try to integrate missing part of buildings/monuments if possible

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Examines ancient cities using archeological evidence to reconstruct urban landscapes

Presents research on the Palatine Hill, providing new insights into Roman urban development

Interactive and multi-modal learning experience with videos, readings, discussions, labs, and hands-on materials

Taught by Paolo Carafa, an archaeologist of Roman urbanism at Sapienza University of Rome

Suitable for history enthusiasts and scholars seeking a deeper understanding of ancient cities and Roman archaeology

Requires students to have some background knowledge in archaeology, ancient history, or classical studies

Reviews summary

Archaeology and history of the palatine hill

According to learners, this course offers a rich and detailed exploration of the Palatine Hill's history and archaeology. Students particularly praise the passionate and knowledgeable instructor, Professor Carboni, whose delivery is frequently described as engaging. The course content is seen as well-structured, guiding learners through the changing landscape chronologically. Reviewers often highlight the depth of information provided, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in ancient Rome. While some found the pace challenging at times, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, recommending it for those seeking a deep dive into this specific historical site.

Some found the pace or detail density challenging.

"While incredibly informative, the amount of detail can be overwhelming at times. Requires focused attention."

"The pace is quite fast, assuming a certain level of prior knowledge, though the content is excellent."

"Be prepared for a lot of information. It's not a light introduction, but a serious academic approach."

Overwhelmingly positive and recommended by learners.

"I would highly recommend this course to anyone interested in ancient Rome, especially the Palatine Hill."

"Fantastic course! Definitely recommend it for history buffs."

"One of the best courses I've taken on this platform. Highly recommended."

Chronological structure is logical and easy to follow.

"The chronological structure of the modules made it easy to track the development of the Palatine Hill over time."

"I found the course flow very logical, moving from pre-urban settlement through the imperial period."

"The course is well-organized, breaking down a vast history into manageable, chronological segments."

Content offers significant depth on the Palatine Hill.

"The course provides a deep dive into the archaeology and history of the Palatine Hill, offering details I hadn't found elsewhere."

"I appreciated the detailed focus on this specific, crucial area of Rome. It's incredibly thorough."

"Excellent content for anyone wanting more than a surface-level understanding of ancient Rome's origins."

Instructor is highly praised for knowledge and passion.

"Professor Carboni is a truly fantastic lecturer. His passion and knowledge of the subject matter shine through."

"The instructor's enthusiasm is contagious. I felt like I was learning from a leading expert in the field."

"The professor's lectures were the highlight. He made complex history feel alive and understandable."

"The lecturer was so knowledgeable and engaging. I learned so much from him."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Changing Landscape of Ancient Rome. Archaeology and History of the Palatine Hill with these activities:

Read "The Archaeology of Ancient Rome" by John Humphrey

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This book provides a comprehensive overview of the archaeological evidence for the changing landscape of ancient Rome.

View Greek and Roman Technology: A Sourcebook:... on Amazon

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Read the book's introduction and first chapter to get an overview of the subject.
Read each subsequent chapter, focusing on the key archaeological evidence for the changing landscape of Rome during each period.
Take notes on the key points of each chapter.
Write a short summary of each chapter.
Discuss the book with other students or with your instructor.

Complete practice quizzes on Roman history and architecture.

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Practice quizzes will help you test your knowledge of the course material and identify areas where you need further study.

Browse courses on Roman History

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Find practice quizzes online or in textbooks.
Take the quizzes and review your answers.
Identify the questions that you answered incorrectly.
Review the course material related to the questions that you answered incorrectly.
Retake the quizzes to assess your progress.

Create a timeline of the key events in the history of ancient Rome.

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Creating a timeline will help you visualize the sequence of events that shaped the landscape of ancient Rome.

Browse courses on Roman History

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Research the key events in the history of ancient Rome.
Create a timeline using a spreadsheet, presentation software, or online tool.
Include the date, event, and a brief description for each key event.
Share your timeline with other students or with your instructor.
Optional: Add images or other multimedia to your timeline.

Three other activities

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Design a presentation about the changing landscape of ancient Rome.

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Creating a presentation will help you synthesize your knowledge of the course material and develop your presentation skills.

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Research the different periods of Ancient Roman history and their impact on the landscape of Rome.
Identify the key architectural features and monuments of each period.
Create a visual representation of the changing landscape of Rome over time.
Prepare a narration to accompany your presentation.
Practice your presentation and get feedback from peers or instructors.

Volunteer at an archaeological site in Rome.

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Volunteering at an archaeological site will give you hands-on experience with the archaeological evidence for the changing landscape of ancient Rome.

Browse courses on Archaeology

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Contact archaeological organizations in Rome and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Apply for volunteer positions that match your interests and skills.
Participate in archaeological excavations and other activities at the site.
Learn from experienced archaeologists about the methods and techniques of archaeological research.
Share your experiences with other students or with your instructor.

Contribute to the Wikipedia page on the Palatine Hill.

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Contributing to the Wikipedia page on the Palatine Hill will allow you to share your knowledge of the course material with a wider audience.

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Create a Wikipedia account.
Edit the Wikipedia page on the Palatine Hill.
Add new information to the page based on your knowledge of the course material.
Cite your sources.
Submit your changes for review.

Career center

Learners who complete The Changing Landscape of Ancient Rome. Archaeology and History of the Palatine Hill will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Archaeologist

Archaeologists study past human cultures by excavating and examining material remains such as artifacts, buildings, and monuments. This course would be highly beneficial for archaeologists, as it focuses on the archaeology and history of the Palatine Hill in Rome. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge would be invaluable for archaeologists working in Rome or on Roman history.

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Historian

Historians study the past by examining written records, artifacts, and other sources. This course would be highly beneficial for historians who specialize in ancient Rome, as it provides a deep understanding of the history and development of ancient Rome through the lens of archaeology and historical analysis. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge can be valuable for historians who are working on Roman history.

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Professor

Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. This course would be highly beneficial for professors who teach ancient Roman history or archaeology, as it provides a deep understanding of the history and development of ancient Rome through the lens of archaeology and historical analysis. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge can be valuable for professors who are teaching about ancient Rome or Roman history.

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Architectural Historian

Architectural historians study the history of architecture and the ways in which buildings and other structures have been designed, constructed, and used. This course would be highly beneficial for architectural historians, as it focuses on the history and development of architecture in ancient Rome. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge would be invaluable for architectural historians working in Rome or on Roman history.

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Epigrapher

Epigraphers study inscriptions, which are written records carved into stone, metal, or other durable materials. This course would be highly beneficial for epigraphers who specialize in ancient Rome, as it provides a deep understanding of the history and development of ancient Rome through the lens of archaeology and historical analysis. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge can be valuable for epigraphers who are working on inscriptions from Rome or on Roman history.

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Research Scientist

Research scientists conduct research in a variety of fields, including archaeology, history, and other social sciences. This course would be highly beneficial for research scientists who specialize in ancient Rome, as it provides a deep understanding of the history and development of ancient Rome through the lens of archaeology and historical analysis. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge can be valuable for research scientists who are working on projects related to ancient Rome or Roman history.

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Tour Guide

Tour guides lead tours of historical sites and other attractions. This course would be highly beneficial for tour guides who specialize in ancient Rome, as it provides a deep understanding of the history and development of ancient Rome through the lens of archaeology and historical analysis. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge can be valuable for tour guides who are leading tours of Roman ruins or historical sites.

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Anthropologist

Anthropologists study the behavior, origin, and development of humans and cultures. This course can be particularly helpful for anthropologists who specialize in archaeology, as it provides a deep understanding of the history and development of ancient Rome through the lens of archaeology and historical analysis. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge can be valuable for anthropologists who are interested in understanding the development of human societies and cultures.

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Urban Planner

Urban planners develop plans for the use of land and the development of communities. This course may be helpful for urban planners who specialize in historic preservation or urban design, as it provides a deep understanding of the history and development of ancient Rome. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge can be valuable for urban planners who are working on projects related to ancient Rome or Roman history.

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Educator

Educators who teach history or archaeology may find this course helpful, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the history and archaeology of the Palatine Hill in Rome. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge can be valuable for educators who are teaching about ancient Rome or Roman history.

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Museum Registrar

Museum registrars manage and organize collections of artifacts and other objects. This course may be helpful for museum registrars who specialize in ancient Roman history or archaeology, as it provides a deep understanding of the history and development of ancient Rome. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge can be valuable for museum registrars who are responsible for managing collections of Roman artifacts.

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Curator

Curators are responsible for the care and management of museum collections. This course may be helpful for curators who specialize in ancient Roman history or archaeology, as it provides a deep understanding of the history and development of ancient Rome. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge can be valuable for curators who are responsible for managing collections of Roman artifacts.

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Museum Director

Museum directors are responsible for the overall management and operation of museums. This course may be helpful for museum directors who specialize in ancient Roman history or archaeology, as it provides a deep understanding of the history and development of ancient Rome. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge can be valuable for museum directors who are responsible for managing collections of Roman artifacts.

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Writer

Writers create written content, such as books, articles, and scripts. This course may be helpful for writers who specialize in ancient Roman history or archaeology, as it provides a deep understanding of the history and development of ancient Rome. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge can be valuable for writers who are working on projects related to ancient Rome or Roman history.

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Library Scientist

Library scientists manage and organize libraries and information centers. This course may be helpful for library scientists who specialize in ancient Roman history or archaeology, as it provides a deep understanding of the history and development of ancient Rome. The course covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of Rome to its rise as an empire, and the decline of the Roman Empire. This knowledge can be valuable for library scientists who are responsible for managing collections of Roman artifacts or books on Roman history.

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