Villa romana del Paturro, Roman villa archaeological site in Portmán, Spain
Villa romana del Paturro is an archaeological site of a Roman villa near Portmán spread across different terrain levels, featuring residential quarters with marble furnishings and production areas. Excavations have uncovered mosaics, marble sculptures, and pottery fragments that reveal the different functions and high standard of this residential complex.
The site was discovered in 1969 and shows two distinct phases of use: first during the Republican period for mining and later in the 1st and 2nd centuries AD as a production center for garum, a popular Roman condiment. This shift in purpose reflects the region's economic changes.
The most impressive finds from the site are displayed in the archaeological museums of La Unión, Cartagena, and Murcia, including colorful mosaics and marble fragments. These objects reveal how wealthy the residents were and the level of artistic skill present in the region.
The archaeological finds from the villa are displayed in the museums of La Unión, Cartagena, and Murcia, where you can see mosaics, marble fragments, and other artifacts. Since the excavation site itself has limited access, visiting the museums is recommended to fully understand the site's history.
The villa stands at a key location between the ancient harbor of Portus Magnus and inland routes, enabling trade activities during Roman times. This position explains why luxury goods such as precious marble items and fine pottery were present here in large quantities.
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