Course: Cult and Death in Roman Colonialism
This course examines how religious practices and funerary rituals shaped early Roman colonies. These communities were founded in newly conquered areas of the central Mediterranean, by default in territories previously inhabited by Indigenous populations. Alongside theoretical study, we will together visit Roman, colonial, and Indigenous sites in central Italy. Using archaeological evidence from sanctuaries and funerary contexts, we will explore how cultic rituals and mortuary practices structured colonial life. We will also examine how these practices mediated encounters between Roman settlers and Indigenous groups. In this way, the course aims to rethink debates on the character of Roman expansion and its impact on Mediterranean societies.
The course begins with a series of five weekly introductory seminars in Groningen, followed by a 10-day stay at the KNIR in Rome, scheduled from March 8th to March 19th. The second part of the course, running from April to June, focuses on writing a research essay and participating in feedback sessions.
Coordinator KNIR
Prof. dr. Tesse Stek
Teaching staff
Prof. dr. Tesse Stek (KNIR), Dr. Jeremia Pelgrom (RUG)
Language
English
Credits
The study load is the equivalent of 10 ECTS. Each student should arrange with their university coordinator whether the course can be a part of their existing curriculum. After successful completion of the course, the KNIR provides a certificate mentioning study load and grade.
Facilities in Rome
All participants will be housed at the Royal Netherlands Institute near Rome’s Villa Borghese Park. From there, it is only a short walk to the historical center of Rome. The KNIR accommodation consists of shared bedrooms and bathrooms, and includes a living and dining space, a large kitchen, washing machine and wireless internet. All residents have 24/7 access to the library and gardens of the Royal Netherlands Institute.
Target group
The course is open to (R)MA / PhD students from KNIR partner universities (University of Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Leiden University, Utrecht University, Radboud University, University of Groningen).
Application and admission
The selection of participants is based on grades, the added value of the course in the student’s curriculum, a letter of motivation, and the composition of the group. Students can apply via the University of Groningen.
At KNIR we believe diversity enriches debate: different perspectives contribute to the quality of our work. We therefore value and highly encourage applications from students with diverse backgrounds and identities.
Deadline for applications
14 December 2026. You will be notified about the outcome within two weeks after the deadline. Please note that the decision of the selection committee is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
More info
E-mail: secretary knir.it
Phone: (+39)063269621
This course has been organized in collaboration with
