Roman Oven

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Vila Real > Santa Marta de Penaguião > Loural > Aguilhão

Location

The Roman Kiln is located in the Aguilhão area, in the village of Loural, municipality of Santa Marta de Penaguião. This site is situated in a predominantly rural and peaceful environment, on the left bank of the Aguilhão river.

The kiln is integrated into a spacious square paved with cobblestones, near a bridge. The surrounding area is characterized by agricultural land, which contributes to the historical context of its original function. For the protection and understanding of the monument, the structure is covered by a rectangular wooden and slate porch, and there is a sign with detailed information and a map of the site.

Legacy of the Roman Era

This Roman Kiln dates back to the Late Roman Empire, showcasing significant industrial activity in the region during that period. Its primary function was the production of common pottery, including items such as the tegula and ímbrex (types of roof tiles), as well as other everyday earthenware, essential for the communities of the time.

The presence of this kiln demonstrates the productive capacity and economic organization of the Romans in these lands. It thus offers a direct perspective on the technology and working methods developed almost two millennia ago, constituting an important testament to the Roman presence and its impact on the landscape and local life.

A Look at the Construction

The kiln's structure reveals a complex and ingenious design, conceived to optimize the ceramic firing process. It is composed of two main chambers: a heating area, which was buried in the ground, and a firing chamber located on a higher level. The mouth of the kiln, where firewood was introduced and airflow regulated, was built of granite.

The furnace, where the fire was lit, appeared as a rectangular corridor with brick walls that would have formed a vault. This furnace connected to the heating chamber, which was trapezoidal in plan and contained low walls with arches, creating spaces for the circulation of hot air. Above, a baked clay grate, perforated with holes, allowed the heat to rise and reach the pieces to be fired. Although the original vault and chimney are not fully preserved, it is possible to understand the functionality of this system which allowed for very high temperatures for ceramic production.

The Story of a Discovery

This millennial kiln remained buried for many centuries, being accidentally rediscovered around 1950 during agricultural work on a local property. At the time of its initial revelation, unfortunately, some parts of the structure, such as the vault and chimney, were damaged by workers who, unaware of their importance, did not identify them as an archaeological find.

Following the initial discovery and subsequent reburial, dedicated efforts were made towards its preservation and study. In the 1980s, an emergency archaeological intervention was carried out. More recently, at the beginning of the 21st century, the site underwent revitalization works, which included the creation of a paved square and the construction of a new protective porch, ensuring that this significant historical-cultural landmark can be preserved and appreciated by visitors.

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