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Roman Transport Network Connectivity and Economic Integration

Author

Listed:
  • Hornung, Erik
  • Flueckiger, Matthias
  • Larch, Mario
  • Ludwig, Markus
  • Mees, Allard

Abstract

We show that the creation of the first integrated multi-modal pan-European transport network during Roman times influences economic integration over two millennia. Drawing on spatially highly disaggregated data on excavated Roman ceramics, we document that contemporary interregional trade was influenced by connectivity within the network. Today, these connectivity differentials continue to influence integration as approximated by cross-regional firm investment behaviour. Continuity is partly explained by selective infrastructure routing and cultural integration due to bilateral convergence in preferences and values. We show that our results are Roman-connectivity specific and do not reflect pre-existing patterns of exchange using pre-Roman trade data.

Suggested Citation

  • Hornung, Erik & Flueckiger, Matthias & Larch, Mario & Ludwig, Markus & Mees, Allard, 2019. "Roman Transport Network Connectivity and Economic Integration," CEPR Discussion Papers 13838, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:13838
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Economic integration; Roman trade; Transport network connectivity; Business links; Cultural similarity;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • F14 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Empirical Studies of Trade
    • F15 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Economic Integration
    • F21 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - International Investment; Long-Term Capital Movements
    • N73 - Economic History - - Economic History: Transport, International and Domestic Trade, Energy, and Other Services - - - Europe: Pre-1913
    • R12 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Size and Spatial Distributions of Regional Economic Activity; Interregional Trade (economic geography)
    • R40 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Transportation Economics - - - General
    • O18 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Urban, Rural, Regional, and Transportation Analysis; Housing; Infrastructure

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