Archaeologists Uncover Ancient Roman Settlements in Spain, Hinting at a "Hidden Empire"

Archaeologists from the University of Cádiz have made a groundbreaking discovery in the Guadalete area of Spain, unearthing 57 ancient Roman settlements that may indicate a previously unknown "hidden empire." Initially expecting to find minimal remnants of Roman influence, the team instead revealed a complex network of interconnected sites across regions such as Arcos de la Frontera, Bornos Villamartin, and Puerto Serrano. This discovery suggests that the area held greater significance during the Roman era than historians had previously recognized. The excavation, led by Professor Macarena Lara, marks the first comprehensive study of these sites, which were initially identified in the 1980s and 1990s but had not been thoroughly explored until now. Utilizing advanced technology, including ground-penetrating radar, researchers were able to detect buried structures that were invisible to the naked eye. This innovative approach allowed the team to uncover vital architectural details, such as walls that separated residential areas from workplaces in the Roman villa of El Cañuelo in Bornos. The research aims to understand the interactions between the Bay of Cádiz and the settlements along the Guadalete River during the Roman period, an aspect that has remained largely unexplored. The settlements are believed to date back to the Roman conquest of Spain in 264 BC, although researchers are still working to confirm the exact dates of the newly discovered structures. Professor Lara emphasized the importance of ongoing excavations and the use of non-traditional techniques to gain a comprehensive understanding of the Roman presence in the region. The findings thus far provide a meaningful foundation for future research into the integration of this inland area into the broader Roman Empire across Europe.