A Climatic Change in the Early Byzantine Period? Some Archaeological Evidence

Abstract

Palaeoclimatic studies have pointed to a substantial increase in precipitation in the Roman Near East in the early fourth century (around 300 c.e.) and the beginning of a generally more humid period that lasted for some three centuries. The archaeological data from Palestine described here may support the hypothesis of increased humidity during this period. This paper examines some of the implications of the postulated climatic change for the extent of settlement in the Roman East and studies the responses that may have been made to the climatic change by the Roman authorities.