TWO YEARS of archaeological excavations have revealed many structures and artefacts at Monte Molião, an ancient Roman site near Lagos.
Last summer, Lagos Câmara and the Lisbon University began the first phase of systematic excavations at Monte Molião. It was discovered that evidence for human occupation at the site went as far back as the fourth century B.C. during the Iron Age, before the Roman period.
Elena Morán, an archaeologist from Lagos Câmara, said: “The inhabitants of Monte Molião at this time were included in the Mediterranean trade routes, evidenced by the Greek ceramics uncovered.” Other artefacts discovered dating to the Iron Age include pottery, coins, glass and metal hooks.
This year, excavations involving dozens of university students, using scientific techniques such as micro-topographic and geophysical studies, have so far uncovered a lot more artefacts and structures.
Pedro Lourenço, one of the archaeologists at the site, said: “Large circular brick structures can be seen here, which correspond to ovens from the high Imperial Roman era. The excavations show that this area was densely populated, including structures that could be part of a large public building.”
Archaeologists will present their findings to the public after two years of excavation on August 30, when the site will be open to public viewing.
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