Spanish archaeologists have found evidence of what they believe is a previously unknown part of the Roman Empire. A research team has discovered 57 Roman-era sites in the Sierra de Cádiz region, which they describe as “unprecedented.” They believe the distinctive sites are connected with ancient shared communications and trade routes. More research will be undertaken to better understand the significance of the findings.
The uncovered areas are all located near the Guadalete River, which scientists believe may have been the shared connection. In a report, the researchers stated that their “objective is to know the interaction of the Bay of Cadiz with the settlement of the Guadalete River depression during the Roman period.”
The Roman Empire had a strong presence in Spain, and the country boasts some of the most magnificent buildings from that period. Tarragona, for instance, is considered one of the world’s most important Roman ruins. It sits overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and hosted gladiator combats and theater performances thousands of years ago.
Spain is also home to the Tower of Hercules, the world’s oldest lighthouse. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was lit up for the first time approximately 2,000 years ago. Similarly, the world’s only fully preserved Roman wall is found in the Spanish Lego region. Despite years of research, archaeologists remain puzzled about the wall’s purpose, but legend suggests it was built to protect the nearby “Sacred Forest of Lugo.” No such forest exists today, and historians say its past existence cannot be confirmed.
The magnificent Roman Theater of Merida is one of Spain’s most visited sites. It dates back to 15 BC and was constructed under the orders of Emperor Augustus.
At its height – around AD117 – the Roman Empire stretched across three continents and encompassed parts of Asia, Africa, and most of Europe. It flowed from the Italian capital, where the Empire was established around 625 BC. It continued in various forms and with separated factions until around AD 476. Spain was one of Rome’s conquered foreign territories and remained under Roman rule until roughly AD 474.
