A contextual approach to non-urban sanctuaries: a micro-regional study of the cult place of Laghetto del Monsignore (Lazio, Italy)

Abstract

Spatial theories about the role of sanctuaries often focus on their position within urban territories. However, this urbano-centric focus can result in static, anachronistic models of sacred landscapes. This is particularly problematic for cult places that pre-date urban settlement-systems, such as the case study of this article, the cult place of Laghetto del Monsignore. This site is attributed contradicting functions; some identify it as an isolated nature sanctuary, functioning independently of society. Others have emphasised its relation with the nearby settlement of Satricum. To better understand how Laghetto del Monsignore was embedded in local society and how the development of Satricum into an urban settlement affected the cult place, we here adopt a holistic approach, combining a comprehensive analysis of the material culture with spatial analysis of the micro-regional setting of the cult place. This approach highlights transformations in the micro-regional settlement pattern and points out multiple use contexts of the cult place: in the Orientalising and Archaic periods it was part of the sacred landscape of Satricum. However, rural communities and shepherds passing the cult place along transhumance routes also frequented the cult place in its earliest phase, and may have continued to do so alongside Satricum´s urban community.