At the heart of Strait of Gibraltar Nature Parkin front of the golden cove of Bolognathe remains of the ancient industrial town of Claudia Baelo. This archaeological complex, considered one of the most important in our entire geography, offers an attractive view where the blue of the sea meets the green of the mountains of La Plata and San Bartolomé. The beauty of the natural environment is complemented by the presence of a sand dune declared a natural monument, creating a unique landscape in the province of Cádiz that dates back to the end of the 2nd century BC. C., initially born as a seaport of vital strategic importance for trade with the north of Africa.
And its location was essential for the connection with the town of Tingis, the current Tangierserving as a hub of constant communications and trade. Over time, this small coastal town took advantage of the region’s marine resources to establish factories that marked the beginning of its long economic boom. In fact, the city reached its peak splendor when the emperor Claudio decided to elevate it to the rank of commune, giving it the nickname that it still retains today. Its urban layout was designed faithfully according to the classical canons of the Roman architect Vitruvius, with a monumental center organized perpendicular to the sea line. This urban development culminated in the first half of the 2nd century AD, consolidating Claudia Baelo as an authentic and authentic model of Roman urban life in the province of Cádiz.
The main driver of the local economy was its a powerful fish canning industryfocused on the production of salted fish and the export of seafood products. The most famous product of the time was the garumwhat today might be called a “charcuterie” sauce made from fish innards, much appreciated by the upper classes of Rome. It is estimated that during its period of greatest glory, there were up to forty active factories in the city capable of producing different types of this popular sauce, depending on the fish used.
Walking through its ancient streets, everyone can recognize the decumanus maximus and the maxim thistlethe two main roads which structured every urban center of the empire. At the intersection of these axes was the forum, which served as an administrative center and social meeting point for the entire community. In its surroundings were concentrated essential buildings such as the basilica for administering justice, the municipal archives, the curia and various commercial premises or stores. He religious aspect The city was marked by an elevated area where the Capitoline Triad, composed of temples dedicated to Jupiter, Juno and Minerva, was worshipped. In addition to these traditional gods, Baelo Claudia had a sacred enclosure dedicated to the goddess Isis, which testifies to the adoption of oriental cults in the Roman culture of that time.
The aforementioned structures dominated the cityscape, being located on the upper terraces to emphasize their importance in the city hierarchy. On the other hand, the offer of leisure and social protection was supplemented by a imposing Roman theater who took advantage of the natural slope of the hillside to precisely place their stands there. This building had the capacity to accommodate up to two thousand spectators and is still used occasionally today for theatrical performances and concerts, especially in summer. Likewise, the city had public baths and an advanced water supply system through aqueducts to guarantee the hygiene and supply of its inhabitants.
Dunes as allies
He rediscovery of this treasure of archeology began in 1917 thanks to the excavations led by Jorge Bonsor. Among the most remarkable discoveries of recent decades is the Doryphorus of Baelo, a marble sculpture which constitutes the only Roman copy of the famous work of Polykleitos found in Hispania. Important pieces have also been located, such as a statue of Trajan and remains of industrial tools that document daily life and the power of the local oligarchy. Despite its initial prosperity, the city suffered the impact of various natural disasters, including an earthquake in the 3rd century and a possible tsunami later. These events, combined with the incursions of Mauritanian pirates and the economic crises of the empire, caused its definitive abandonment around the 7th century AD.
Paradoxically, the constant advance of the dunes sand has helped to protect and preserve the underground structures, allowing them to reach today in an exceptional state of conservation, which is why it has been declared National Historic Landmarkbecause they are the best preserved archaeological complexes on the peninsula. Currently, Claudia BaeloAs well as remaining a cultural attraction next to a beautiful and much-loved beach, it has a modern interpretation center designed by architect Guillermo Vázquez Consuegra and inaugurated in 2007. Although its design has generated some controversy due to its impact on the landscape, the building provides a fundamental starting point that offers impressive panoramic views of the site. Inside, permanent exhibitions, a specialized library and interactive resources help contextualize the history of the factory town.
Scientific research remains very active today through projects carried out by the University of Cádizfocused on industry recovery garum. These experimental archeology tasks aim to recreate ancient fish sauce recipes and better understand the technological processes of ancient installations. These interdisciplinary investigations not only provide new historical knowledge, but also encourage the training of new archaeologists for excavations in the industrial district. In short, visiting this corner of the peninsula is an unprecedented experience for understanding the heritage of Rome in the Iberian Peninsula, a key part of Andalusia’s cultural identity and a must-visit destination for those seeking to understand the present through the past.
About The Author
