Overview
This lecture covers the discovery and investigation of a Roman shipwreck in the Rhône River near the ancient city of Arles, focusing on its cargo, historical significance, and the potential reasons for its sinking.
Discovery of the Shipwreck
- Archaeologists found a Roman shipwreck, dubbed Al-Rhone 24, 20 meters underwater near Arles.
- The dive was dangerous due to strong currents and low visibility, requiring safety lifelines.
- Large wooden planks, ancient tiles, and a unique anchor were identified at the site.
Historical Context of Arles
- Arles was a major Roman trade port on the Rhône, connecting the Mediterranean to inland Europe.
- The city was prosperous from the 1st to 5th centuries A.D., with significant economic and political influence.
Investigation and Finds
- A grid system was set up to catalog and map each artifact at the site.
- Hundreds of ancient coins, including gold and bronze, were recovered from the riverbed.
- Most coins dated to the 4th century, especially to the reign of Constantine II (337–340 AD).
- A rare gold belt buckle, likely belonging to a high-ranking Roman dignitary, was found.
Analysis of Ship and Cargo
- The ship was an 18-meter-long flat-bottomed barge used for transporting heavy goods.
- The tiles found acted as ballast; the cargo included silver ingots and metal plates.
- Some metal plates are nearly pure silver and were likely intended for coin minting.
Coin Production and Monetary System
- Coins provided chronological clues due to the emperor's portrait and title on each.
- The discovery aligns with the period when Arles housed a major imperial mint moved by Constantine.
- Experimental archaeology confirmed the metal plates could be used to make coins.
Theories for the Shipwreck's Purpose
- The treasure may have been destined for military use, such as paying or recruiting soldiers.
- Another theory suggests it was meant to fund early Christian church construction in Arles.
- The medallions and coins were possibly being remelted to honor a new emperor after Constantine II's assassination in 340 AD.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Ballast — Heavy material placed in a ship to ensure stability.
- Mint — A place where coins are manufactured.
- Medallion — A large, often commemorative coin or ornament.
- Barge — A flat-bottomed boat for transporting goods.
- Tria Nomina — The three-part Roman naming system indicating social status.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Await the results from a complete excavation for further confirmation of the theories.
- Continue cataloging newly discovered objects from the site.