Julia Domna was born in Emesa, Syria (present-day Homs) around 160 A.D., descending from a ruling royal line. She became the wife of the Roman emperor Septimius Severus in 187 A.D. Julia Domna was intelligent, shrewd, and cherished throughout her tenure. As empress, Julia held a prominent role in Roman society and wielded enormous power and influence under the reigns of her husband and her son, Caracalla. She played a key role in running state affairs and engaging with political dignitaries. Additionally, she accompanied her emperor husband on military campaigns and served as his advisor, which was unusual for an empress; a role that granted her the title “mater castrorum” in Latin, which translates to “mother of the military camp”.

Julia Domna’s influence extended to social and religious spheres as well. Descending from a family of priests of the Syrian god Elagabalus, Julia supported various religious cults, promoting religious diversity within the empire. Furthermore, her keen interest in art and philosophy drove her to establish a court that became a cultural and intellectual hub. Her court attracted many renowned historians and scholars like Galen, Cassius Dio and Philostratus and fostered an environment where philosophical discussions and debates were commonplace. Her patronage included promoting the works of various artists and scholars, contributing to the flourishing of Roman art and literature. Numerous coins bore portraits of Julia, reflecting her formidable political, intellectual, and social influence. Serving no secondary position to emperors, Julia was a cardinal pillar in shaping Roman history and society and a prototype of women in power.