The first words of this inscription show that it is a renewal of existing isopoliteia between Miletos and its colony at Olbia; see V.B.Gorman, "Miletos, the Ornament of Ionia", pp.147-9 ( Google Books ). The translation is adapted from A.J.Graham, "Colony and Mother City in Ancient Greece", pp.99-103 ( archive.org ). It is likely that the inscription should be dated to c. 330 B.C., but some scholars have suggested other dates.
The following are traditional arrangements for the Olbiopolitans and Milesians.
The Milesian in the city of Olbia shall sacrifice like an Olbiopolitan on the same altars, and partake in the same public cults under the same conditions as the Olbiopolitans.
The Milesians shall have exemption from taxation as it was formerly. If a Milesian wishes to become eligible for office, he shall come before the council and be entered on the rolls and be liable to taxation as other citizens are.
The Milesians shall have the right of privileged seats at public gatherings, of being announced at athletic contests and of praying at the festival of the triakades, as they pray in Miletos.
If the Milesian has a law suit arising from a legal contract in Olbia, the case shall be tried within five days at the public court.
All Milesians shall be exempt from taxation except those who in another city exercise citizenship, hold magistracies and take part in the courts.
On the same terms, the Olbiopolitans shall be exempt from taxes in Miletos, and the other arrangements shall apply in the same way to the Olbiopolitans in Miletos as to the Milesians in the city of Olbia.
Attalus' home page | 20.12.16 | Any comments?