The topic that the speakers are invited to discuss is the often-overlooked archaeological evidence for episcopates in the eighth century, which has been long neglected in scholarly research. The difficulty in identifying material evidence, coupled with a preconceived notion of a decisive rupture in the life of Mediterranean territories during the seventh century, has contributed to the marginalization of that period. The thematic session aims, therefore, to provide a perspective ‘beyond’ the usual archaeological interpretation of the impoverishment of ecclesiastical structures from the post-Heraclian era onwards. It is indeed questioned whether the material evidence concerning the eighth century can reveal significant elements for asserting substantial continuity with the past, rather than constituting a moment of rupture. The architectural and decorative choices of the episcopates, their presence in urban planning, in this sense, appear to constitute a privileged lens for analyzing and comparing the situations. Recent research, in fact, has emerged as a transformative force, challenging established paradigms. Intriguingly, several settlements not only reflect the persistence of life but also bear witness to substantial investments made by local ecclesiastical authorities. The comparison between different situations aims to stimulate a reevaluation of historical narratives, emphasizing the need to revisit established perspectives and recognize the nuanced complexities that define the development of Mediterranean territories during this period.
The history of the episcopate of Gortyn enters a phase of significant reconfiguration of its monumental focal points during the 8th century. This transformative period begins with the activity of Archbishop Andreas and culminates in the earthquake of 796, which brought about the definitive destruction of the episcopal church. Over the course of these decades,…
This paper examines the archaeology of episcopal institutions in the Southern Levant during the 8th century CE, a period marked by significant political and religious transformations following the early Islamic conquests. Focusing on the material remains associated with episcopal authority and infrastructure, the study draws on archaeological excavations, architectural analysis, and material culture to investigate…
The eighth century represents a period of profound transformation for the city of Ravenna. The tensions between episcopate, papacy, and exarchate constitute the underlying thread of the historical and political dynamics that shaped the city during this time. The collapse of the exarchate, Lombard domination, and the gradual absorption into the Frankish sphere not only…
This paper presents an archaeological re-examination of the episcopate of Amorium, capital of the Anatolikon theme, during the 8th century. It confronts the central historical question of the bishopric’s alignment during the Iconoclast policies of emperors Leo III and Constantine V by integrating new material evidence with the sparse historical and sigillographical record. Extensive excavations…