Identifier: imarina:9228412
Authors:
Remolà Vallverdú, Josep Anton
Abstract:
We aim to assess the presence of Lusitanian amphorae in Tarraco during the late Roman period (3rd-5th centuries). The analysis is based on archaeological evidence and other documentary sources in order to characterize the general framework of the city’s food consumption and supply. The sample-a selection of stratigraphic contexts, mainly dated to the 5th century-is uneven. A large dump dated to the end of the 3rd century allows a close approach to the consumption of this period. For the 4th century, the scarcity of appropriate closed stratigraphic contexts makes it difficult to define an accurate overall picture. This situation changes significantly in the 5th century, a period in which a major number of reliable archaeological deposits can be found. The amphorae and imported pottery in general show a steep increase in number and percentages compared to the earlier and later contexts. This growth could be related to an increased demand motivated by the strategic importance of Tarraco; the city appears in written sources as being the base of the imperial armies trying to reintegrate all of Hispania to the legitimate power in the West during most of the 5th century. In this period, a significant part of the amphorae comes from southern Hispania (Lusitania-Baetica), a high percentage, in striking contrast with the distribution patterns of amphorae documented in other regions, in which Lusitanian, and Hispanic amphorae in general, are very rare. From the end of this century onwards, a decline is detected in both amphorae and other imports, and there is no clear evidence to affirm the continuity of Lusitanian imports in a period dominated by eastern Mediterranean and North African amphorae.
Repositori URV