ROMAN PAST
Roman past revealed near the Castle
15.08.09 - 11:19 -
FIND. Base of a pillar or statue revealed by workmen. / B. J. PRINSEN
Some of the most interesting discoveries are made purely by chance, like the caves in Nerja, and for the men digging up the roads near the castle in Marbella to lay new pipes, a Roman settlement was probably not what they expected to find. There has not yet been time for the experts examine the find in detail, but all indications are that it is an important one that could shed light on the origins of Marbella. Although previous Roman remains have been found in the area, this is a first for Marbella and could add a great deal to knowledge of that period.
Bases
The find, in the heart of the old town, appears to consist of pillar or statue bases, a pavement and stones suggesting a substantial building and that this was a thriving settlement. Initial investigations will now take place to discover more about the site and add to the sum of local history.
Because of the historic importance of the area, all earth movements should be carried out with care and observe archaeological guidelines. Local experts believe that the site would have been re-used by the Arabs, a common practise. Murals on the castle walls suggest an earlier Roman settlement and the discovery of the remains adds weight to this theory.
Although there have been many other Roman sites discovered, including the Roman Villa in Rio Grande, this is first time concrete evidence has been uncovered in the old town. Ciliana, the society for the investigation and preservation of Marbella’s history, has asked the Town Hall that they be allowed to carry out further explorations and that all roadworks in the area should be under the supervision of an archaeologist as "The old town has more surprises." said Catalina Urbaneja of Ciliana.
According to Carmen Díaz the Councillor for Culture, it is likely that further investigation of the remains will be delayed whilst the pipelaying works continue. Until then the discovery will be covered in and possibly not re-opened until plans for the historic Castle, which will set the parameters for the conservation and repair of the building, are finalised in 2010.
