Corpus Inscriptionum Latinarum

collection by Mommsen

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June 24, 2026

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The Corpus Inscriptionum Latinarum (CIL) is a comprehensive collection of Latin inscriptions, founded by Theodor Mommsen in Berlin in 1862. This monumental work, comprising 16 volumes with supplements, systematically organizes inscriptions preserved on stone, iron, and other durable materials.12

The CIL was conceived by Mommsen during his research in Italy and was designed to complement the literary tradition of ancient Rome by providing a more complete understanding of life in the ancient world. It covers the Classical Latin world and is noted for its consistent methodology and organization. Current epigraphic findings and studies are regularly documented in publications like L'année épigraphique.21

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Theodor Mommsen
Early years
…conceived the plan for the Corpus Inscriptionum Latinarum, a comprehensive collection of Latin inscriptions preserved since antiquity on stone, iron, and other enduring materials, arranged according to the basic principles of philological methodology. Having been prepared for this field by the young Kiel professor Otto Jahn, he soon became a…
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…conceived the plan for the Corpus Inscriptionum Latinarum, a comprehensive collection of Latin inscriptions preserved since antiquity on stone, iron, and other enduring materials, arranged according to the basic principles of philological methodology. Having been prepared for this field by the young Kiel professor Otto Jahn, he soon became a…
Read More

epigraphy
Greek and Latin inscriptions
The Corpus Inscriptionum Latinarum, founded by Theodore Mommsen in Berlin in 1862, comprises 16 volumes fortified with copious supplements; it covers the Classical Latin world and is notable for its homogeneity and systematization. Current finds and studies are presented in L’année épigraphique (since 1888). Etruscan inscriptions…
Read More
The Corpus Inscriptionum Latinarum, founded by Theodore Mommsen in Berlin in 1862, comprises 16 volumes fortified with copious supplements; it covers the Classical Latin world and is notable for its homogeneity and systematization. Current finds and studies are presented in L’année épigraphique (since 1888). Etruscan inscriptions…
Read More