Prefect

• The Prefect, known as the Praefectus, was a title of high ranking officials in the Roman Empire, either civilian or military.
• The Office was part of the Equestrian career path.

Equo Publico

• The office of Prefect was part of the Equo Publico, the Equestrian career path.
• This was distinct from the Patrician career path, the Cursus Honorum.

Prefects of Rome

• Praefectus Aerarii Saturni:
  • Guardians of the State Treasury
• Praefectus Annonae:
  • Prefect in charge of the Grain supply.
  • He and his staff were based at Ostia.
• Praefectus Annona Militaris:
  • Prefect in charge of the Military Grain Supply.
• Praefectus Urbanus:
  • The Mayor of Rome.
• Praefectus Vehiculum:
  • Prefect for the Public Roads
• Praefectus Vigilum:
  • Prefect of the Vigiles Urbani, Rome’s Fire Brigade

Military Prefects

• Praefectus Classis:
  • Fleet commander
• Praefectus Castrorum:
  • Camp commandant
• Praefectus Equitatus:
  • Cavalry commander
• Praefectus Praetorio:
  • Commander of the Praetorian Guard.

Prefects (Governors) of the Provinces

• Praefectus Aegypti:
  • The Governor of Egypt was also known as the Praefectus Augustalis.
  • The position was always held by an Equestrian.
• Praefectus:
  • Pontius Pilate was notable for being the Prefect of Judaea.