Tag

Roman Forts

All articles tagged with #roman forts

"Unearthed: Cold War Satellite Images Expose Hidden Roman Forts"
archaeology2 years ago

"Unearthed: Cold War Satellite Images Expose Hidden Roman Forts"

Declassified cold-war spy satellite images have revealed 396 previously unknown Roman forts in Syria and Iraq, challenging the previous understanding of the Roman frontier. The findings suggest that the frontier was a place of cross-border trade and communication, rather than constant conflict. The forts were likely constructed to support caravan-based interregional trade and protect routes between the eastern provinces and non-Roman territories. The discovery indicates that the borders of the Roman world were more fluid and inclusive than previously believed. The images, part of a spy-satellite program, highlight the value of satellite imagery in recording archaeological features before they are lost.

Cold War spy satellites uncover lost Roman forts
archaeology2 years ago

Cold War spy satellites uncover lost Roman forts

Declassified imagery from Cold War era spy satellites has led to the discovery of 396 previously unknown Roman forts in the Syrian Steppe, spanning what is now Syria and Iraq. The forts were found throughout the region, contradicting the theory of a north-south border wall, and instead suggesting that they were constructed to promote inter-regional trade and communication between the eastern and western regions. This challenges previous assumptions about the Roman frontier and highlights the flexibility and inclusivity of the Roman World. Many of the forts have already been destroyed by modern development, emphasizing the urgent need for preservation efforts.