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MATTHEW J. ADAMS

ROMANS AT MEGIDDO. The Jezreel Valley’s strategic, economic, and administrative significance made this fertile plain in north-ern Israel the scene of many historical and biblical battles. In the early second century CE, the Romans founded a legionary camp in the Jezreel known as Legio to further secure their control over Judea. Within sight of the mound of ancient Megiddo, archaeologists uncovered a fortified military base, seen on the left in the early stages of excavation, as well as a civilian settlement, an amphitheater, and cemeteries. Ongoing research reveals details of daily life and the cultural and religious trans-formations that took place at this critical outpost on Rome’s eastern frontier.