Naval transport, ports and routes in the imperial age: An analysis of the circulation of marble in Roman times

Abstract

This is a study of the complex circulation of marbles during the Roman age and its implications as part of the project “The Emperor's Architecture: Official and private residences, urban landscapes and ports in the age of Hadrian (117-138 AD).” Many scholars have already explored this topic in the past, but they have not provided a comprehensive view of the technical aspects related to this trade. A team analysed the main characteristics of such sea transits, particularly the complexity of the sea routes. Various other aspects were also examined, from the systems and methods of transport, with attention paid to the type of boats used in this trade, to the definition and indication of the marble supply sources and the travel times of these heavy cargo ships. The analysis of each of these aspects has revealed that, despite much research, there is still insufficient knowledge. Although the methodology of this study still presents several problems to be solved, an attempt has been made to provide as broad a picture as possible of the available sources. Without claiming to be decisive, the writers have applied a new approach to analyzing the sources, contextualizing the circulation of marbles bound for Rome within the general framework of commercial traffic in the Roman world. To this scope, it was essential to compare both the maritime and terrestrial archaeological evidence as well as the main types of marbles used during the imperial age with other products following similar routes. Despite the variations of these routes over time due to historical, social and economic factors, it has been possible to make a first attempt at a unitary and comprehensive understanding of the problem. These preliminary results will benefit from further examination in a diachronic perspective with the investigation of new evidence and discoveries.