Herodian Fortresses: reflections of political practices in the landscape

Abstract

The present article intend to discuss issues related to the political uses of the architectural landscape, through the analysis of the possible intentions behind Herodian fortresses. Since such fortresses had previously belonged to the Hasmoneans and were mostly rebuilt by Herod the Great, we purpose to investigate whether there was intentional obliteration of Hasmonean mightiness by Herod through the use of monumentality, or if any other reason led to their reuse and modification. Therefore, we will use primary documentary and archaeological sources.