Vicus

  • The Vicus, (Plural: vici), was an unplanned Roman settlement that grew up beside small legionary Forts.
  • There was no town council and law and order was maintained by the Fort itself.

Description

  • Unplanned settlements that grew up beside Legionary Fortresses, such as York, were called Canabae.
  • The Vicus and Canabae were distinct from planned towns which were called Civitates.
  • Originally the vicus was ruled by the commander of the adjacent Roman fort.

Etymology

  • The word vicus continues in town Place Names such as:
    • English Place names:
      • Wych, Wyke, Wic, Wick, Wich
    • Dutch Place names:
      • Wijk
    • German Place names:
      • Wih, Weich, Wik, Wic

Roman Cities by status

 

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