Abstract
The Roman Empire had a very complex structure. It consisted in fact of three interconnected essential elements, each representing an instrument of the power. There was first of all, the central administration, then the provincial administration and finally, the army. This last one was strong and powerful. It was moreover often described as the first modern professional army, which was characterized by a precise organization, strict training and specialized structures. Thus, the army proved itself indispensable for the preservation of an Empire. It was indeed the army that assured its security and was, at the same time, the guarantor for the tenure of the power of the Emperor. But, considering its very important strength and a certain shape of independence, the army had also a sizable impact, in the social, economic, cultural and political domains of provinces. It was involved in their everyday life, not only as a visible presence, but especially as a representation of the Roman imperial power on cities and villages. So, how the Roman army had influenced and governed provinces and communities of the empire?
