Roman City of Eburobrittium

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Leiria > Óbidos > Casal do Zambujeiro

Location:

The Roman City of Eburobrittium is located in Casal do Zambujeiro, municipality of Óbidos. Its implantation was carefully planned, taking advantage of its proximity to the Serra de Montejunto, the Atlantic coast, and, in particular, the abundance of thermal spring waters. The surrounding landscape reflects the careful choice of the ancient Romans for the establishment of this important urban center.

An Ancient History:

Eburobrittium is a Roman locality mentioned by Pliny the Elder, a Roman naturalist from the 1st century AD. Its existence, which was debated for centuries, was confirmed by extensive archaeological excavations carried out at the turn of the 21st century. These revealed that the city's central area was built from scratch at the end of the 1st century BC, remaining occupied and undergoing adaptations until the mid-5th century AD.

The Civic and Social Center:

Excavations in Eburobrittium have uncovered important parts of its central area, including public and private buildings, as well as essential infrastructure. The city's planning followed Roman urban principles, with main axes such as the cardo (north-south orientation) and the decumanus (east-west orientation) defining the layout. Of note is the forum, the heart of the city, where commercial, administrative, religious, and social activities took place. Within it, commercial spaces, such as tabernae, and what may have been an archive or treasury, have been identified. Part of the basilica, with its two naves, and a central square flanked by a portico, complete the image of this vibrant core.

The Baths and Roman Daily Life:

One of the most notable elements of Eburobrittium are its baths. These spaces were fundamental in Roman life, not only for personal hygiene but also as places for social gatherings and community debate. The excavated part of the warm baths reveals the presence of the laconicum (steam bath) and compartments with the underground heating system, known as hypocaustum, in addition to the furnace area. Although the residential buildings present more complex interpretations due to their incomplete plans, the presence of opus signinum floors and water drainage systems demonstrates the level of planning and comfort for the era.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt