What is a quarter in a Roman town composed of several blocks referred to as?

In the context of Roman towns, a quarter composed of several blocks is most accurately referred to as a "regio." The term "regio" denotes a specific district or administrative area within a city, particularly in larger urban centers like Pompeii and Herculaneum. Each regio was typically further subdivided into insulae, which are individual blocks or buildings, housing various types of structures.

Understanding the role of a regio helps to appreciate the urban layout and social organization of Roman cities. Regiones could encompass a mix of residential, commercial, and public spaces, allowing for a vibrant community life in those designated areas. This terminology is significant because it reflects the Roman system of urban planning and governance, highlighting the structured nature of their cities.

The other terms played different roles within the urban framework. An insula refers to a single block of buildings, a vicus pertains to a smaller neighborhood or street, and a forum serves as the central public space for various civic activities. Thus, the choice of "regio" accurately captures the concept of a larger area within the city that encompasses multiple blocks and serves as an essential component of Roman urban structure.