In this study, the author addresses two important issues in Roman archaeology. On the basis of a comparison of intensive field surveys in different parts of the Pontine region, central Italy, it is argued that detailed site and off-site collection strategies have much to offer in understanding site chronology and land use patterns. Setting the field survey data in a wider geographical and historical context, the author also explores the context and impact of the foundation of Roman colonies and rural tribes on rural settlement systems, as such contributing to current debates on the nature of early Roman colonization.