Was Travelling for Fun in Ancient Times a Thing?

Tourism, as we know it today, has its roots in ancient times. Although it was predominantly a privilege for the elite in the Roman Empire and beyond, there were indeed instances of leisure travel. The opulent journeys made by the Roman elite serve as a fascinating glimpse into the past, showing that pleasure and relaxation were indeed part of the ancient itineraries.

One such example is a significant event that occurred annually during the Roman Empire. A notable attraction in ancient Jerusalem featured a mausoleum of Queen Helena, whose son, Abgar V, was said to be none other than Izas/Izates/Angel according to the writings of Josephus.

Leisure Travel in the Roman Empire

The idea that leisure travel was a thing during ancient times might come as a surprise to some. However, as detailed in the book “Travel in the Ancient World” by Lionel Casson, there is substantial evidence to support this notion. In the Roman Empire, travel was not only a means of political and economic efficiency but also a way for the elite to seek pleasure and relaxation.

Queen Helena and the Rolling Tomb

One of the greatest attraction spots during certain festivals in Jerusalem was the tomb of Queen Helena. On a specific day each year, a remarkable event would take place. The stone in front of the tomb would roll back, revealing the mausoleum. This event was a highlight for visitors and added an element of wonder and intrigue to the journey.

Who was Abgar V and the Significance of his Name?

The identity of Abgar V, the son of Queen Helena, was a matter of historical debate. According to Josephus, he was known as Izas, Izates, or Angel. This complexity in naming highlights the rich and varied heritage of the region, making the historical record both intriguing and challenging to interpret.

Elite Travel in Detail

But how exactly did the elite members of the Roman society engage in travel for pleasure? The book “Travel in the Ancient World” delves into these practices in great detail. Casson’s works provide a comprehensive understanding of the infrastructure and means that facilitated such travel. These included better roads, the establishment of inns, and the development of a relatively efficient postal system which helped in the organization and planning of journeys.

Access to Travel

However, it is crucial to note that not everyone could partake in leisure travel. It was primarily a privilege reserved for the elite. These individuals had the financial resources, social connections, and legal permissions to embark on such journeys. They traveled for pleasure, often visiting sites of religious or cultural significance, as well as for strategic and diplomatic reasons.

The Scholarly Perspective on Elite Travel

For a deeper exploration of the topic, one might want to refer to Lionel Casson’s book. His insights are invaluable, and his authoritative studies provide a well-rounded understanding of the subject. I have a detailed review of this book posted on Amazon UK, written in 2012, which can offer additional perspectives and recommendations.

Conclusion

While leisure travel was predominantly a feature of the more affluent members of ancient Roman society, it does provide an insight into the early roots of modern tourism. From the rolling tomb in Jerusalem to the intricate networks of elite travel, the history of travel is rich and complex, offering valuable lessons for the present and future.