Reflections on Cetóbriga and Tróia

Abstract

This paper discusses the sites of Setúbal and Troia departing from their Roman remains in order to reflect on their character and relationship. The archaeological record of Setúbal shows an urban agglomerate with production activity more evident up to the 3rd century, vestiges of domus and architectural pieces proving its urban character and a continuous occupation up to the 6th century. The materials recovered in the city show a stronger economic dynamism in the 1st and 2nd centuries and a lower frequency of imports in Late Antiquity. The archaeological remains of Troia show a great number of fish-salting factories, with stronger activity in the High Empire, but maintaining a strong production capacity up to the 5th century. Not many houses are known, but there are baths, mosaics and painted stucco. The materials recovered show economic dynamism both in the High Empire and in Late Antiquity, and a great affluence and circulation of imported consumption goods. Even if Troia always maintained a strong industrial character, it seems it had a great economic autonomy and there is no indication that Caetobriga and Troia were the same city.