This international, transperiodic conference is the result of an inter-institutional collaboration that developed within the framework of the project "Aristocratic networks and territorial power from Antiquity to the modern era" supported by the MSHS-Sud-Est. This project is the result of a joint reflection by historian and archaeologist teachers and researchers from the ancient, medieval and modern periods of the Université Côte d'Azur (members of CEPAM and URMIS) and their partners (ARSCAN, CIHAM, CRH, Centre Roland Mousnier). The project focuses on the relationship between the holders of power and the territory, and the way in which this power leaves its mark on the territory, and even shapes it.

Thus, it is not a question of analysing the way in which the holders of power exercise it, but rather of grasping its manifestations in a given territorial ensemble, both in their tangible/concrete dimension (castle, villa, places of execution, milestones, etc.) and in their immaterial dimension (anthroponymy, toponymy, etc.). These elements make it possible to approach the notion of territorialisation from a reflection on 'spatial markers' which can refer to the question of the presence of power (places of power), the question of the extent of power (boundaries and limits) and the question of the relationship to time, to the memorial dimension of power (monuments). The projection of power onto space can also take various forms, whether it be an organisation into polarised networks (central power and local relays) or the use of itinerancy as a mode of government. These various forms of projection are not always exclusive and can be juxtaposed or succeed each other according to logics that need to be clarified. Finally, the chronological framework chosen provides a homogeneous context insofar as these historical periods are marked by a strong interweaving of powers (political, economic, social, religious, cultural) which constitutes an additional element of complexity that must be taken into consideration.

We are committed to organising an event that generates as little carbon emissions as possible. Therefore, we invite you to use soft mobility to get to the congress venue, to prefer the train or carpooling to the plane, and not to forget your water bottle, as we have chosen not to distribute disposable bottles.