SYRIA.Seleucis and Pieria.Laodicea ad Mare.Macrinus.(217-218).Ae.

Obv : IMP C M OP SEV MACRINOS P AV.
Laureate head of Macrinus to right.

Reve : ROMAE FEL.
Lupa Romana standing right, suckling the twins Romulus and Remus.
SNG Copenhagen 369.

Condition : This coin features a sandy, light-brown patina with dark, almost black areas in the recesses, giving it an earthy appearance. The patina seems to have formed in dry conditions, which contributed to its consistent coloration. Despite the wear and corrosion, the details of the portrait and reverse imagery remain visible, though slightly obscured by the uneven patina. The contrasting colors help to accentuate the remaining details, creating an interesting visual effect. Overall, the coin is in fair condition with significant surface encrustations from age.Good very fine.

Material : Bronze.
Axis : 12h

Weight : 15.22 gr
Diameter : 29 mm

Laodicea ad Mare, also known as Laodicea by the Sea, was an important city in the ancient region of Seleucis and Pieria, located in what is now modern-day Syria. It was a significant center of commerce, culture, and religion during the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Founded by Seleucus I Nicator, one of Alexander the Great’s generals, Laodicea was named after his mother, Laodice. The city’s strategic location on the Mediterranean coast made it a vital maritime hub, enhancing its economic and political significance.

Seleucis and Pieria was a coastal region in northern Syria, part of the larger Seleucid Empire, which emerged after the fragmentation of Alexander the Great's empire. This region, with its fertile land and access to major trade routes, was one of the wealthiest provinces in the Hellenistic world. Laodicea, as one of its principal cities, benefited from its proximity to the Mediterranean and its role as a port city, facilitating trade with other parts of the ancient world, including Egypt, Greece, and Rome.

Laodicea ad Mare was particularly known for its production of glass and textiles, which were highly prized throughout the ancient world. The city’s port allowed it to export these goods across the Mediterranean, contributing to its wealth and prominence. Additionally, Laodicea minted its own coinage, which often featured images of Greek gods and goddesses, as well as symbols that reflected the city’s maritime heritage. The coins provide valuable insights into the city's economy and the cultural influences that shaped it.

Culturally, Laodicea was a melting pot of Greek, Roman, and indigenous Syrian traditions. As part of the Seleucid Empire, it embraced Hellenistic culture, including Greek architecture, art, and language. However, as the city later came under Roman control, it also absorbed Roman customs and administrative practices. Temples, theaters, and baths in the city were built in the Greco-Roman style, demonstrating the blend of influences that shaped Laodicea's urban landscape.

Religiously, the city was home to a variety of cults and deities, reflecting its diverse population. Temples dedicated to Greek gods such as Apollo, Zeus, and Artemis existed alongside the worship of local Syrian gods. Under Roman rule, the imperial cult, which honored the Roman emperors as divine figures, became an important aspect of public religious life in Laodicea. The coexistence of different religious traditions highlights the city’s role as a cultural crossroads between the East and West.

One of the most remarkable features of Laodicea ad Mare was its sophisticated infrastructure. The city was equipped with an advanced water supply system, which brought fresh water from nearby mountains into the city. This engineering marvel allowed Laodicea to support its growing population and contributed to its status as a prosperous urban center. The city's harbor was another critical piece of infrastructure, facilitating not only trade but also naval activity, as Laodicea was an important base for military fleets during both the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

Throughout its history, Laodicea faced challenges, including earthquakes and invasions. Like many other cities in the region, it was affected by the seismic activity common to the area, and several major earthquakes caused significant damage to the city over time. Despite these setbacks, Laodicea continued to rebuild and maintain its position as a key city in the region.

The city's importance began to decline in the later Roman and Byzantine periods, particularly as other cities in the region, such as Antioch, rose in prominence. Nevertheless, Laodicea ad Mare remained inhabited for centuries, serving as a testament to its resilience and the enduring significance of its strategic location on the Mediterranean coast.

In conclusion, Laodicea ad Mare was a prominent ancient city that played a crucial role in the commercial, cultural, and political life of Seleucis and Pieria. Its strategic coastal location, economic wealth, and cultural diversity made it a vital center in the ancient world. Though its importance waned in later periods, the legacy of Laodicea ad Mare continues to be reflected in the archaeological remains and historical records that tell the story of this once-great city.