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Abstract
Ancient sources provide information on the measures adopted by emperors in favour of cities ravaged by natural disasters, particularly earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. This article examines the inscriptions that mention imperial aid, by analysing the form and vocabulary used. The first type of inscription mentions the monument that was restored thanks to imperial generosity. The concrete modalities of the reconstruction, in particular the origin of the funds used, are rarely mentioned. The second type of inscription honours the emperor who contributed to the restoration of one or more cities with the title of saviour or founder.
These inscriptions are intended to emphasize the link forged on this occasion between the emperor and the beneficiary city, honouring the emperor and recalling his generosity. It also aims to spread the image of the kindness of the princeps, who meets the expectations of the inhabitants of the empire thanks to his prouidentia and his