Milestones near Roman Army Installations in Desert Areas of the Provinces of Palaestina and Arabia

Roman milestones in the Negev Desert, including those along the Incense Route, were likely erected by local Roman Army units near military installations rather than as part of the broader imperial road network. This finding contrasts with the northern and central regions of Palaestina, where such markers are more common along well-preserved roads. The study suggests that these milestones serve as evidence of localized military activity in desert areas, a pattern also observed east of the Via Nova Triana in southern Jordan. By analyzing known milestones and their distribution, the research sheds light on Roman military logistics and infrastructure in arid regions.

David, C. B. (2019). Milestones near Roman Army Installations in Desert Areas of the Provinces of Palaestina and Arabia. Roman Roads, 132–146. https://doi.org/10.1515/9783110638332-008