Ptolemaic seal impressions

The paper re-evaluates the disparate pieces of archaeological, historical and literary evidence on the importance of Isis for the Ptolemies and their worshipper-subjects. It also attempts a re-consideration of more recent scholarly views on the topic, by a way of offering a comprehensive reading of official Isiac imagery in art, mostly seal impressions, which were presumably under direct dynastic control, albeit recognised by other authorities in Egypt (say, the native priesthood) at the same time. My main source of material is the so-called Edfu hoard of clay seal impressions (late 2nd – 1st c. BC), studied alongside other materials, such as engraved gems and metal signet rings, coins, medals, and other minor arts, all seen against the backdrop of monumental, Egyptian-style like, sculpture of the period.

Romania has several historic heritage sites which date back to Greek and Roman times. Among them, an important place is held by the Callatis Fortress located in the city of Mangalia. Callatis was built during the 4th century BC by the greek colonists who came from Pontic Heracleea. Callatis has a lot of archaeological attractions on the shore, such as: the Princiar Tombstone, the Papyrus Tombstone, the Archeological Museum of Callatis and the hellenistic fortress ruins. Southeastwards of Mangalia, 6-7 metres under the sea level, on a surface of about 2 hectares, vestiges of the ancient fortress were discovered, findings that have boosted the visitors interest in underwater archaeological tourism, the construction of an underwater touristic park, similar to the ones from Baiae, Caesareea and Alexandria from Egypt, being taken into account. The Fortress of Callatis has great historical tourism potential, recently being observed an increasing interest concerning the archaeological and historical aspects of the ancient Greek settlement.