Treure profit de la insularitat: l’exemple de Delos

Abstract

The island of Delos represents one of the best examples to analyse the concept of insularity. Literary descriptions define Delos through mythological and religious narratives that can be confronted with the archaeological evidence to highlight the key factors which shaped her historic development. To reach a deep understanding of the insularity of Delos, the article proposes to single out two kinds of parameters: permanent parameters, related to geography and natural resources, and variable parameters, which depend on historical events, religious activities, or economic conditions, as well as social complexity. The analysis of permanent parameters reveals that, although Delos had some physical limitations, its landscape was not dissimilar to other Cycladic islands and could support a certain amount of population with local resources, particularly if properly managed. Regarding variable parameters, two factors help the island overcoming physical constraints. First, Delos’ sacrality as birthplace of Apollo and the subsequent construction of Apollo’s sanctuary, along with its ritual performances and festivals. Second, the Roman bestowal of the status of free port to Delos when, in 167/6 BC, the island returned once more to the control of Athens.