Roman furnaces in Alcamo, Archaeological site with Roman furnaces in Alcamo Marina, Italy.
The Roman furnaces in Alcamo Marina are remains of an ancient tile factory with three kilns arranged side by side. The excavation site reveals the foundations and structural layout of a production facility that manufactured roofing tiles and ceramic vessels for widespread distribution.
The factory began operations in the 3rd century and continued for about two centuries before declining in the 5th century. It was connected to the nearby harbor of Castellammare del Golfo, which served as the main outlet for distributing its products.
This production facility was part of a trade network that distributed Roman goods across the Mediterranean region. Local families gained influence through pottery making, and their mark on tiles has survived as evidence of their economic role in ancient Sicily.
The site is located in a rural area near the San Bartolomeo river and may require guidance to identify the excavation areas clearly. Visitors should expect uneven ground and limited facilities, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
The kilns were built large enough to fire hundreds of tiles daily, which is remarkable for such a modest production facility. This suggests the operators had greater commercial ambitions and market connections than the site's modest size would indicate.
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