Roman World

The Roman Seaport

During the Roman Empire, river and sea ports were developed and used in different regions to facilitate trade, territorial expansion and the transport of goods and troops. These ports played a crucial role in the maintenance and prosperity of the vast empire.

The port complex was characterised by its well-planned infrastructure and became centres of commercial and military activity. They enabled transport and trade both along navigable rivers and across the seas, facilitating the exchange of goods and economic development throughout the empire. They had docks, warehouses, cranes, lighthouses, fortifications and water control systems to ensure efficient and safe port operations. In addition, many Roman ports also had adjacent settlements that developed into thriving cities due to the trade and economic opportunities generated by the ports.