Civitas

The term "Civitas" refers to citizenship in ancient Rome. It encompassed rights such as the ability to vote, hold public office, and serve in the military, though these were often tied to property qualifications. As Rome expanded, "civitas" was extended to communities outside of Italy, aiding in the Romanization of provinces. By 212 CE, all free inhabitants of the Roman Empire were granted citizenship.1

Audrey Flack, an American artist, created a sculpture titled Civitas (also known as the Monumental Gateway) in Rock Hill, South Carolina. This sculpture, completed in 1990-1991, is made of four bronze figures and is a notable example of her transition from painting to sculpture, often incorporating mythological and feminist themes.2