Roman pavement

Category: Archaeology > Estrada romana

District: Santarém > Torres Novas > Torres Novas

Location

The Roman Road of Torres Novas is a remarkable vestige of the past, located in the municipality of Torres Novas, in the district of Santarém. It is found in segments that punctuate the local landscape, integrating discreetly, yet profoundly significantly, into the region's environment. When walking nearby, visitors may come across this ancient structure, which appears as a stony memory of the vast network of roads that once connected the most important centers of the Iberian Peninsula during Roman rule.

This site offers a unique perspective on antiquity, allowing for a reflective pause on the civilizations that passed through here, in a setting that, although sometimes close to inhabited areas, invites contemplation of the historical legacy.

An Ancient Legacy

The Roman Road of Torres Novas represents a direct testament to the presence and influence of the Roman Empire in this area, approximately two thousand years ago. These roads were the backbone of the vast empire, crucial for the movement of troops, the transport of goods, and communication between various cities and settlements. In the case of Torres Novas, these road segments were part of a vital route that would connect the ancient city of Turanio, the Roman name for Torres Novas, to other important centers of Roman Lusitania, highlighting the region's strategic and economic importance.

Exploring this road is like stepping back in time, imagining the hustle and bustle of travelers, merchants, and legionaries who once walked on the same stones that remain visible today, silently narrating stories of a distant era.

Engineering and Construction

The construction of the Roman Road highlights the remarkable engineering of the Romans, known for its durability and robustness. These paths were erected with great technical rigor, starting with the excavation of a trench, followed by the deposition of multiple layers of different materials, compacted earth, gravel, and larger stones, culminating in the final paving of large stone slabs, carefully carved and fitted. This technique ensured the stability and longevity of the structure, allowing it to withstand intense use and the elements throughout the centuries.

Observing the stone blocks that make up the road is to appreciate the mastery and planning that characterized Roman public works, an engineering feat that continues to amaze with its resilience and effective simplicity.

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