The Roman Nomenclature for the Adriatic Sea: Mare Superum
The Adriatic Sea, a significant body of salt water in southern Europe, is an arm of the Mediterranean situated between the Italian Peninsula and the Balkan Peninsula. The region's cultural and historical significance span thousands of years, encompassing various civilizations and, notably, ancient Rome. The Romans had a specific term for this sea, which has since become part of our understanding of the region's identity and historical geography.
Historical Context and Adaptation
The Adriatic Sea is an important maritime region that has played a crucial role in the cultural and economic development of southern Europe. It stretches from the Po River in Italy to the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. The area is home to numerous countries and regions, including Italy, Albania, Croatia, Greece, Montenegro, Slovenia, and parts of France.
The name 'Adriatic' finds its roots in the Illyrian language, with the stem 'Adria' signifying 'water' or 'sea.' Over time, this term has evolved and been adapted in different languages and contexts. However, for the Romans, the sea had a specific designation: 'Mare Superum,' which translates to 'Upper Sea' in English.
Etymology and Translation
The term 'Mare Superum' is a Latin phrase that reflects the Romans' perception of the Adriatic Sea's geographical position in relation to the Mediterranean Sea. To understand this fully, one must delve into Roman geography and linguistic conventions. In Latin, 'Superum' means 'that which is above' or 'higher,' emphasizing the sea's elevated status within the broader Mediterranean region.
For detailed information on the etymology and translation, one can refer to works such as the 'Dictionary of Greek and Roman Geography' published in 1854 by William Smith. This invaluable resource provides insight into the historical and geographical understandings of the period.
Historical Accounts and Usage
During the Roman Empire, the Adriatic Sea was a vital maritime route connecting the mainland to the wealth and resources of the eastern Mediterranean. Roman historians and geographers, such as Pliny the Elder, wrote extensively about the sea, its ports, and the surrounding territories in their works.
The term 'Mare Superum' was used in various contexts, from official Roman documents to personal correspondence and travel accounts. It represented not only a nautical reference but also a symbolic significance, perhaps denoting the sea's strategic and economic importance.
Modern Relevance and Interpretation
Today, the term 'Mare Superum' may seem archaic, but it still holds cultural and historical significance. It reflects the enduring legacy of the Romans and their influence on the geography and nomenclature of the Adriatic region. Understanding the term requires an appreciation of the wider historical context of Roman geography and the specific linguistic and cultural practices of the time.
For modern scholars and enthusiasts, studying the term 'Mare Superum' offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and the deeper meanings of place names and geographical terms. Further research can be undertaken through academic texts, historical documents, and linguistic studies that explore the evolution of the Adriatic region's identity over time.
References:
Dictionary of Greek and Roman Geography (1854) by William Smith Pliny the Elder, Natural History Roman Geographical Works and Literature