Concerning Ceuta: some questions on ancient geography and epigraphy

Abstract

Research into the past of the Strait of Gibraltar and the city of Ceuta progressed remarkably in the last two decades, which justifies resuming the analysis of several completely or partly unanswered questions related to Antiquity. In this paper we suggest a new perspective on Ora Maritima by Avienus, in the part addressing the location of Mount Zephyris, and a new interpretation of the meaning of a fragment of inscription found in Ceuta. In both cases sufficient elements were taken into account to substantiate the hypotheses we put forth, aiming at stimulating the debate on the past of Ceuta, a subject often neglected in Portugal.