S’Argamassa Roman Fish Farm

S'Argamassa is a Roman fish farming installation along the Mediterranean coast near Santa Eulària with stone tanks, water channels, and remains of a limestone aqueduct. The site shows how water was distributed through engineered systems to supply different sections of the complex.

Romans built this facility after conquering Ibiza and developed advanced aquaculture methods on the island with sophisticated water management. The production plant reflects how Romans systematically harnessed natural resources for large-scale food production.

The facility specialized in producing garum, a fermented fish sauce stored in amphoras that was traded throughout the Roman world as a flavor enhancer for food and wine.

The remains are located near the shore and are freely accessible, though the terrain is uneven with stones and vegetation. Wear sturdy footwear and be careful on slippery rocks, especially during windy or wet weather conditions.

The facility ingeniously combined freshwater from inland streams with seawater from the Mediterranean in a carefully balanced system. This mixing of water sources allowed farmers to cultivate different fish species under precise conditions for maximum productivity.

Location: Santa Eulària des Riu

Inception: 146 BCE

GPS coordinates: 38.99261,1.57161

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:40