Bible Dictionaries
Colony

Holman Bible Dictionary

Only Philippi is described as a colony of Rome (Acts 16:12 ), though many cities mentioned in the New Testament were considered as such. Roman colonization as practiced under Julius Caesar provided land for healthy individuals on the relief rolls of Rome and veteran soldiers. The cities of Corinth and Philippi were Roman colonies during the time of Caesar. Augustus founded colonies in Antioch (Psidian), Lystra, Troas, and Syracuse (all mentioned in Acts). Other Roman colonies included Ptolemais (Acco) and Iconium. Colonies had autonomous local governments and in some cases were exempt from poll and land taxes. The functioning of the local governments of Roman colonies is seen in Acts 16:12-40 .