THE ROMANS PRESENCE ON THE TERRITORY OF OLBIA STATE IN I–II CENTURY A. D. IN THE CONTEXT OF MILITARY POLICY OF THE PRINCIPATE

Abstract

The Rome’s interest in Olbia revival at the end of the Ist century B. C. was first of all caused by the need in the Empire’s northeastern borders protection from Sarmat tribes raids and the most important trade routes of the Northern Black Sea Coast defense. Moesia borders strengthening being a border province and the base of the Roman Empire advancement on the territory of the Greek city-states in the Southern Ukraine, as well as understanding the Olbia’s importance being the biggest ancient city located between west Pontus and Taurica made Romans support and restore military potential of this city-state. The purpose of this research is to analyze the military assistance and presence of the Roman troops on the territory of Olbia chora. The article uses historical-genetic method of research: the process of the Olbia-Roman military relations establishment as well as the reasons for their appearance are being successively explored. We have also discovered the Olbia importance for Rome by vitue of its convenient geographical location being a part of the Northern Pontus stronghold protection system (limes Olbiopolitanus) to prevent invasion of barbarian tribes. The article states that the strategic complex of Lower Pobuzhya served as a remote protection of the Roman Empire’s Danube border. It kept barbarians away from entering the Danube and ensured safety of the land routes from Moesia to Taurica. It was proved that Olbia played an important part in foreign policy relations of Rome with the Chersonese and the Bosporan Kingdom, and followed the Roman strategy in this region. It is concluded that the Rome military presence in Olbia contributed to prosperity and protected the city from Scythians and Sarmats attacks.

Keywords

• Ольвія
• Рим
• Moesia Inferior
• вексилляція
• воїни