THE AMPHORA GRAVEYARD OF MONTE TESTACCIO
In
ancient times, amphorae were the main containers used for transportation
and storage of goods. They were massively produced because of their low
cost, and were usually destroyed once they reached their final destination
because it was easier to make a new one than to clean and reuse an old one.
Between the 1st and the 3rd centuries, a spectacular number of amphorae
were broken and dumped at a specific location in Rome near the Tiber River.
Over the years, they formed an artificial hill of testae and crockery 45 meters (135 feet) high.
Originally these amphorae had been used to hold the olive oil imported from the provinces, mainly from Baetica (modern Andalucia in southern Spain). When discarded, the crockery was covered by a film of lime, most likely intended to keep the oil from decomposing. This lime acted as a cohesive element and has assisted in the stabilization of the mound through time.
Many of the amphorae still have the maker’s seal stamped on their
handles, while others retain titles and notes written with a brush or quill
listing the exporter’s name and indicating the contents, the export
controls, and consular date. All these notes make Testaccio the largest
archive of Roman commerce in the world.
In addition, the epigraphy on the pottery provides first-hand documentation of the Roman Empire’s economy, the commercial relations between Rome and the provinces, as well as their eating habits.
This
excavation is overseen by professors from Madrid’s Complutense
University and the Center for the Study of the Provincial Interdependency
in Classical World at the University of Barcelona.
The project dates to 1989, when the research team was asked to undertake a series of excavations at Monte Testaccio. This team had prior experience studying the region of Andalucia where the amphorae originated and in some areas of Germany where other Spanish products were received.
Working alongside this team will offer you a unique opportunity to take part in one of the most important research programs in Roman epigraphy and archaeometry.
You can see an online exhibit about Monte Testaccio at the CEIPAC website.