A recent archaeological study offers new insight into the lives of Roman soldiers stationed in León, revealing how they lived, used goods, and adapted to their surroundings nearly 2,000 years ago.
The research, carried out by archaeologist Eduardo Ramil Rego of the University of León and published in the journal Salduie, focuses on ceramics, glass, and metal objects uncovered at 9 La Torre Street.
The site is located just outside the ancient Roman camp known as Castra Legio, an area that has received less attention than the interior of the settlement.
The materials come from two clearly defined layers dated from the late first century BC to the second half of the first century AD. This timeframe covers the arrival of Legio VI Victrix and the later establishment of Legio VII Gemina, one of the key Roman legions in Hispania.
The study indicates that the land in this area was deliberately altered. Both layers are linked to artificial deposits used to stabilise wet ground near the western side of the camp. Soldiers likely raised the terrain by placing debris and refuse brought from inside the settlement. This practice matches what is known about Roman methods of managing difficult terrain.
The ceramic finds include a mix of imported and locally made wares. Fine tableware known as terra sigillata appears alongside everyday pottery. Items from Italy and southern Gaul are present, along with later regional products that became more common from the mid-first century AD. This shift reflects changing supply patterns within the Roman world.
Some of the most notable pieces include potters’ stamps linked to Ateius and Caius Vibienus, as well as decorated fragments associated with workshops at La Graufesenque in Gaul. These details help trace trade connections and production sources.
Glass objects were also identified, including small containers for oils or perfumes, fragments of vessels, and gaming pieces. These items point to aspects of daily routine such as personal care and leisure.
Metal finds, though limited in number, add further detail. An Aucissa type fibula, a brooch commonly used by Roman soldiers, was recovered along with four bronze coins. These coins were minted in cities such as Caesaraugusta, Osca, Bilbilis, and Emerita Augusta.
The absence of later coins supports a date in the late Augustan or early Tiberian period for the upper layer.
Taken together, the evidence helps clarify how the area outside the camp was used and developed. It also shows that León was connected to wider trade networks from an early stage and that soldiers had access to a range of goods for everyday use. According to Ramil, this type of work is key to understanding how the camp grew and how its surroundings were shaped over time.
Sources : Saldvie – https://doi.org/10.26754/ojs_salduie/sald.2026112566
