The first of these was the multiplication of the number of provinces, which had remained largely unchanged since the time of Augustus, from 48 at the beginning of Diocletian's reign to around a hundred by the time of his abdication. The multiplication of the provinces was probably undertaken for military, financial, and economic reasons. It brought the governor closer to the cities which were responsible for the collection of taxes. It also limited the power of the governors and the autonomy of the cities. At the same time, the status of the provinces was regularised. Egypt lost its unique status and was divided into three provinces, while Italia was 'provincialised' - the numbered "regiones" established by Augustus received names and were governed by "correctores". The distinction between senatorial and imperial provinces was abolished and hitherto, all governors were appointed by the Emperor.