The ἱερὰ καταλύματα of Priscus of Panium: A Note on Places of Care in Naissus in the mid-5th Century

Abstract

Abstract

This article re-examines the meaning of the expression ἱερὰ καταλύματα in the account of Priscus of Panium concerning Naissus in the mid-5th century. The problem addressed is the persistent interpretation of the term as referring to ruined churches or temples, which has dominated scholarship despite earlier objections. The analysis proceeds in three steps: first, a review of the historiography of the passage; second, a lexical and contextual examination of κατάλυμα and ἱερόν in sources; and third, a comparison with Late Antique institutions of care. The method combines philological analysis with contextualisation within the framework of Christian charitable foundations. The main conclusion is that the term denotes places of care for the sick, rather than cultic or ruined structures. The study is based primarily on the fragment of Priscus’ Fragmenta, supplemented by comparative evidence. Its contribution lies in clarifying a neglected interpretation and situating the evidence from Naissus within the broader development of Christian charitable institutions in Late Antiquity.