The Ruins of Conimbriga
Portugal's Most Important Archeological Site Gives Clues to the Past
Aug 10, 2009
According to archeologists, about the 10th century B.C., the first inhabitants settled in Conimbriga and gave it its name, which means “a high and fortified settlement”. Romans conquered Conimbriga in 136 BC and turned it into a city. A third occupation followed the fall of Roman power, and the city reflected signs of Christianity. Walking through the ruins, tourists are in awe of the enduring structures that survived the ravages of time.
Roman Home Construction
The Romans reflected their beliefs and interests in the building of their home. They had a ritual assigned to house construction. In order to ward off evil, they sculpted a stone phallus and buried it into the foundation of the house. In that way, their dwelling would be protected from harm. Elaborate mosaic floor tile patterns reflect themes associated with daily life. Representations of Perseus and Bacchus show their interest in mythology. Images of Charioteers and hunters show their daily activities.
Three houses had well-preserved details:
- The Fountain House-Scholars believe that this site went through three separate restorations. At first, the building was probably used for manufacture and commerce and later converted into a residence. Fountains with decorative mosaics are the most prominent remaining feature. An arcade surrounded a peristyle (a kind of patio) and served as the social center of the house.
- The House of the Swastika got its name from the swastika design scattered within the mosaic floor tile pattern. In Roman times, the swastika represented the sun god and brought good luck. Remains of two cubicles, or rooms for sleeping are at one side of the house. A triclinium, or stone couch used to recline while eating remains on the outer wall.
- The Skeleton House received its name because during demolition and reconstruction, workers found human remains on the side nearest the city wall. Surviving floor tiles have an intricate mosaic design, much of which is now covered by sand to preserve it. In the center of the peristyle, there is evidence of a small garden area. The floor plan appears to have a three-room addition on the side facing the street, which could have been shops or tavern.
The Insula-Condos and Shopping
The Roman equivalent of our shopping mall was the Insula. It consisted of five large buildings divided into two-room shops with residential units. The shops opened out onto the street and had a large storage area.
The Roman Health Club
The Roman baths located near the wall of the city appeared to have three entrances. One area, the caldarium, was probably set off for women. The central part had a hot tub for men. A common area had a cold-water pool for swimming. A large area beneath the floor served as storage for firewood, insuring heat for the spa. Baths to the south of the settlement overlook a scenic wooded area. In addition to the water features, it also had a palaestra, an exercise area or gym, which looked out on the landscape.
The Forum-A Community Center
The Forum area remnants reveal an open square, a section for shops, and what must have been an impressive temple, once the focal point for the cult of divine emperors. By far the best construction and decorations appeared in the forum, which was a gathering place for citizens of the Roman city. Although little remains of the splendor of the actual buildings, the on-site museum provides a scale model of the once impressive construction. Coins, pottery, statuary, altars and other artifacts, deepen the viewers understanding about what life on that site must have been like for its residents.
Those who want a unique experience viewing archeological treasures will want to step back in time and explore the sites at Conimbriga.
Source:
Coimbriga-Guide to the Ruins, Instituto Portugues de Museus, 2006.
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