Politarch Inscription, Thessalonica

Overview

The Politarch Inscription, discovered in 1876 during excavations in the ancient city of Thessalonica, represents a remarkable archaeological find that provides a direct and tangible connection to the historical context of the New Testament narrative. This stone inscription, which dates back to the 1st century CE, bears an inscription that mentions the term 'politarchs,' offering a rare glimpse into the administrative structure of the ancient city. The significance of this discovery cannot be overstated, as it provides tangible evidence of the existence of the term 'politarchs,' a title that is prominently featured in the Book of Acts, where it is used to describe the officials who were responsible for the city's governance. The discovery of the Politarch Inscription has profound implications for our understanding of the historical development of the region, as it confirms the accuracy of the biblical narrative and provides valuable insights into the political and administrative systems of the ancient world. Today, the Politarch Inscription is housed in the British Museum, where it continues to captivate the imagination of scholars and visitors alike, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient Greek civilization.

Inscription