Investigating The Ancient Port Of Sanitja, Menorca

Summary

            Their strategic location in the Mediterranean caused numerous cultures, empires, and countries to fight over and conquer the Balearic Islands of modern-day Spain. In the ancient world, Menorca - the easternmost island of the Balearics - was influenced or conquered by the Minoans, Carthaginians, Romans, and Vandals, respectively. Prior to the Romans’ arrival, the native Baleares were known for their skills with the sling and were hired as mercenaries throughout the Mediterranean. The Romans, therefore, incorporated the islanders into their garrison during the Roman occupation. General Quintus Caecailius Metellus, later surnamed Balearicus, established a fort in 123 B.C., as evidenced by Roman coins found in the remains. Thirteen ancient shipwrecks have been located in and near the port of Sanitja, ranging from 400 B.C. to A.D. 400. Underwater survey in Sanitja continues. 

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Poster Submission 2016   •
• Society for Historical Archaeology 2016

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Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology

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PaperId(s): 539