Ancient Rome - Third Samnite War 298 bce

Perched near the boundary of Ariminium’s settled area, this small shrine to Terminus, the god of boundaries, marks the city’s edge. This sacred site, modestly adorned with stone markers and offerings, is where locals and travelers alike pay homage for safe passage and protection. The shrine symbolizes the significance of boundaries and transitions, an important aspect of a city situated on key trade and military routes. It also serves as a reminder of Ariminium’s place on the edge of Roman-controlled territory, where Roman and Umbrian cultures meet. Shrines to Terminus were common along Roman borders, making this a fitting feature for a city on a vital Roman frontier.

Aerial view of a modest stone shrine, surrounded by well-worn pathways and scattered offerings, with rolling hills and the distant city of Ariminium under a sky painted with streaks of orange and pink during sunset.