Hadrian

INC-1842-a Ауреус Адриан ок. 119-122 гг. (аверс)

Attica 06-13 Athens 24 Arch of Hadrian

(Toulouse) Buste de Trajan type dit 'des Decennalia' - Musée Saint-Raymond, Ra 58 b

Roman Empire 125

Hadrianus coin - 119

Hadrian (Publius Aelius Hadrianus, 24 January 76 – 10 July 138) was Roman Emperor from 117 to 138. Born into a Roman Italic family in Italica, near present-day Seville in Spain, Hadrian is best known for building Hadrian's Wall, which marked the northern limit of Britannia. His reign is noted for a focus on consolidating and fortifying the Roman Empire's borders rather than expanding them.

Early Life

Hadrian was born to a well-established family of Italian origin that had settled in Spain. He was a relative of his predecessor, Trajan, who was reportedly very fond of him from a young age. Hadrian's early career was spent in the Roman military, and he held various political positions before ascending to the throne.

Reign

Upon Trajan's death in 117, Hadrian was declared emperor by the Roman Senate. His reign was marked by a shift from the expansionist policies of his predecessors to a defensive strategy. He strengthened the empire's existing borders, including the construction of the famous Hadrian's Wall in Britannia, and sought to ensure peace through diplomacy.

Hadrian also embarked on extensive building projects throughout the empire, including the Pantheon in Rome, rebuilt during his reign, and the city of Antinoopolis in Egypt, founded in memory of his companion Antinous. His travels across the empire were extensive, visiting almost every province and fostering a sense of unity and cultural exchange.

Cultural Impact and Policies

Hadrian was a patron of the arts and is considered one of the Five Good Emperors. He promoted Hellenistic culture and was an admirer of Greek architecture, which influenced Roman aesthetics significantly during and after his reign. His policies were also notable for their emphasis on legal reform and the welfare of the provinces, including measures to alleviate tax burdens and promote fairness in the legal system.

Death and Succession

Hadrian died in 138 after a long illness. He was succeeded by Antoninus Pius, whom he had adopted as his heir, continuing the tradition of adoptive succession which helped ensure the stability of the empire.

Legacy

Hadrian's reign is often seen as a high point in the history of the Roman Empire, characterized by prosperity, cultural flourishing, and relative peace. His architectural and cultural contributions, as well as his efforts to secure and strengthen the empire, have left a lasting legacy.