Although Laodicea did not receive as much financial support from Roman emperors as some of the rival coastal cities, it still became rich and successful. The reason for this was its excellent location. The city stood on a network of major trade routes that connected the Aegean coast with the inner parts of Anatolia and the East. Merchants, soldiers, and travelers passed through it regularly. This brought money, goods, and new ideas into the city.
Laodicea was also built near important sources of fresh water. Even though the region could be dry in summer, the city managed to supply itself through aqueducts and nearby springs. Good access to water helped support agriculture, industry, and daily life “I Stand at the Door and Knock” (Revelation 3:14–22).
However, the city had one serious problem. It was built on a major earthquake zone. Natural disasters often interrupted its growth. The ancient geographer Strabo described the region as being “full of holes,” meaning it was unstable and frequently shaken by earthquakes. One of the worst earthquakes struck in 61 CE and caused great destruction across the area. Despite this disaster, the city rebuilt itself, showing its wealth and determination.
Relations with Roman Emperors
At one time, the people of Laodicea wanted to build a temple in honor of the Roman emperor Tiberius. However, their offer was refused. The reason given was that the city did not have enough resources to support such an expensive project at that time.
Later emperors were more generous. During the reign of Commodus, Laodicea received the special title of “temple-keeper” (neokoros). This meant that the city was officially allowed to maintain a temple dedicated to the imperial cult. This title brought honor and prestige.
During the period known as the Pax Romana, or Roman Peace, the empire enjoyed political stability and economic growth. Laodicea shared in this prosperity. It became a thriving urban center with public buildings, markets, and social life Guided Istanbul Tour.
Religion and Medical Fame
Very little excavation has been carried out in Laodicea compared to some other ancient cities. Therefore, much of what we know comes from written sources.
The most popular gods in the city were Zeus and Asclepius. Asclepius was the god of healing and medicine. His cult may have been connected to the older Anatolian moon-god Men, who was worshipped in the region before Roman rule.
Laodicea became famous as a medical center. Its doctors were especially known for treating ear and eye diseases. The city produced special ointments for these illnesses. These medicines were pressed into small tablets and exported to many parts of the Roman world. This medical industry brought both fame and income to the city.
Wealth from Wool
Another important source of wealth was wool production. The countryside around Laodicea was known for raising fine sheep. The Roman writer Pliny the Younger praised the sheep of the region. He wrote that they were excellent not only because their wool was very soft, but also because it had a deep black color.
It is not completely clear whether this black color was natural or produced by dyeing the wool. Either way, the wool of Laodicea became highly valued. Textile production and trade added greatly to the city’s prosperity.
Laodicea grew strong because of trade, medicine, and wool production, even though it suffered from earthquakes and received limited early support from Rome. Its strategic location, skilled doctors, and valuable products made it one of the important cities of western Anatolia during the Roman period.
