Ancient Roman Forum Discovered in Spain with Evidence of Christian Iconography and Water Rituals

Spanish archaeologists have uncovered another ancient roman structure believed to have been significant in the development of the Roman Empire.

The site, identified as the "Ocuri" forum, is located in the town of Ubrique, Cádiz, and supports an 18th-century theory by scholar Juan Vegazo, which posited that the central terrace of Cerro de la Mora was home to a Roman forum.

Ancient Roman Forum in Ubrique, Spain

Excavations in Ubrique began after researchers identified what appeared to be an enclosure wall surrounding the forum's central square, per Yahoo News. This wall measures approximately 1 meter high and 16 meters long, dating back to the High Roman Empire between the 1st and 5th centuries AD.

For context, History shared that Roman forums are important to ancient Roman cities as it serve as a central spot for social gatherings and public speeches.

The findings also indicate that the forum was inhabited until the late 4th century, supported by a coin featuring a Christogram, the earliest example of Christian iconography discovered at the site.

Additionally, artifacts such as ceramics from North Africa were found, along with a monumental altar adorned with decorative architectural elements. Distinctive ancient Roman architectural features like columns, bases, and statue pedestals were also present, along with a designated area for water-related religious rituals.

In addition to the forum, archaeologists discovered a nearby medieval defensive structure, suggesting the site had strategic value across various periods of the Roman Empire.