Politics, Patronage and the Transmission of Construction Techniques in Early Medieval Rome, c. 650–750

A significant shift in Roman construction techniques occurred between the late 7th and early 8th centuries, marking a clear break from ancient traditions. This transition, evident in newly excavated structures on the Palatine and at San Paolo fuori le Mura, reflects changes in patronage mechanisms and control over Rome's built environment during the rise of papal power. The study suggests that after a period of decline under Byzantine administration, early 8th-century popes had to reestablish large-scale construction methods, offering insights into the growth and challenges of Rome's nascent papal government.

Dey, H. (2019). POLITICS, PATRONAGE AND THE TRANSMISSION OF CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES IN EARLY MEDIEVAL ROME, c. 650–750. Papers of the British School at Rome, 87, 177–205. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0068246218000363