Settlements > Decapolis

Decapolis

Background

The Decapolis was a group of ten cities on the eastern frontier of the Roman Empire in the southeastern Levant, which included modern-day Jordan, Israel, and Syria. These cities were centers of Greek and Roman culture in a region that was otherwise Semitic. Here’s an exploration of the connections between Alexander the Great, the Hellenistic period, and the Decapolis:

Alexander the Great

1. Conquest of the Near East:
   • Campaign Against the Persian Empire: In his campaign against the Persian Empire, Alexander the Great conquered a wide swath of territory in the Near East, including the region where the Decapolis cities would later flourish.
   • Hellenization: Following his conquests, Alexander spread Greek culture, language, and political structures throughout his empire, initiating the process of Hellenization. This process significantly influenced the Levant, including the areas that would later become the Decapolis.

Hellenistic Period

1. Foundation and Development:

   • Seleucid and Ptolemaic Influence: After Alexander’s death in 323 BCE, his empire was divided among his generals, the Diadochi. The region of the Decapolis was initially under the control of the Ptolemaic Kingdom and later the Seleucid Empire. These Hellenistic kingdoms promoted Greek culture and established many cities that became centers of Hellenistic civilization.
   • Urban Planning: The cities of the Decapolis were designed with typical Hellenistic features, including grid plans, theaters, temples, and gymnasiums.

2. Hellenistic Cities of the Decapolis:

   • Notable Cities: Some of the most prominent cities in the Decapolis included Scythopolis (Beth-Shean), Hippos (Sussita), Gadara (Umm Qais), Gerasa (Jerash), and Philadelphia (Amman). These cities became significant centers of Greek culture, learning, and trade.

Cultural and Economic Significance

1. Centers of Hellenistic Culture:

   • Greek Language and Education: The Greek language was widely used in the Decapolis cities, and many inhabitants received a Greek education. These cities were centers of Greek learning and culture in the region.
   • Architecture and Art: The cities of the Decapolis featured Hellenistic architecture and art, including theaters, colonnaded streets, temples, and public baths. These structures reflected the cities’ integration into the Hellenistic world.

2. Economic Hubs:

   • Trade and Commerce: The Decapolis cities were strategically located along major trade routes, facilitating commerce and the exchange of goods between the Mediterranean world and the interior of the Near East. This economic activity contributed to the prosperity of the region.

Roman Period and the Decapolis

1. Integration into the Roman Empire:

   • Roman Conquest: In 63 BCE, the Roman general Pompey conquered the region, and the Decapolis cities became part of the Roman Empire. These cities retained a degree of autonomy and continued to thrive under Roman rule.
   • Roman Infrastructure: The Romans expanded and improved the infrastructure of the Decapolis cities, adding new buildings, roads, and aqueducts. Roman architectural styles blended with existing Hellenistic elements.

2. Continued Cultural Influence:

   • Hellenistic-Roman Syncretism: Under Roman rule, the Decapolis cities continued to be centers of Hellenistic culture while also incorporating Roman elements. This cultural syncretism enriched the urban and cultural life of the cities.

Notable Sites and Archaeological Discoveries

1. Jerash (Gerasa):

   • Hellenistic Foundations: Jerash, one of the best-preserved cities of the Decapolis, features extensive remains from both the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Its colonnaded streets, theaters, and temples reflect its Hellenistic origins and subsequent Roman enhancements.
   • Public Buildings: Notable structures in Jerash include the Temple of Artemis, the South Theater, and the Oval Plaza.

2. Scythopolis (Beth-Shean):

   • Cultural Syncretism: Scythopolis, located in modern-day Israel, was a major Decapolis city known for its blend of Greek, Roman, and local cultures. Excavations have revealed a well-preserved theater, bathhouses, and a colonnaded street.
   • Economic Hub: The city’s strategic location made it an important economic center in the region.

3. Philadelphia (Amman):

   • Hellenistic and Roman Influence: Philadelphia, now the capital of Jordan, was another key city of the Decapolis. The city featured typical Hellenistic urban planning and later Roman architectural additions, including the Roman Theater and the Odeon.

Conclusion

The Decapolis was a significant group of cities that flourished during the Hellenistic and Roman periods, heavily influenced by the cultural and political changes initiated by Alexander the Great’s conquests. These cities were centers of Greek culture, learning, and commerce, reflecting the profound impact of Hellenization on the region. Under Roman rule, the Decapolis cities continued to thrive, integrating Roman architectural and cultural elements while maintaining their Hellenistic heritage. The archaeological remains of these cities provide valuable insights into the rich cultural and historical legacy of the Hellenistic period in the Near East.

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