Spain, known then as Hispania, was one of the many conquests that the Roman Empire. He fought against the settled peoples throughout the peninsula and then took part in the battles until the fall of the empire. From Alsherry Experiences we show you five curiosities about the Romans in Spain.
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Cities as culture centers
The Romans when they conquered the peninsula found a prosperous and fertile land. In addition to the ease of harvesting, he found mines and geological resources to harness. This encouraged the creation of cities and that, a massive migration to these will begin. The cities that currently inhabited placed where the ancient Romans settled and began to settle.
Hercules
Hercules is a symbol of Andalucia. He came here with Eurystheus. He had to steal the oxen from the colossal Geryon. The god Helio, the sun god, help them to navigate there. He defeated the colossus after a hard fight with a shot from an arrow and took the cattle all over Europe back to Greece, to the city of Maecenas. For this feat, a temple to Hercules erected in Sancti Petri, which Christians destroyed in the reconquist and built the Sancti Petri lighthouse on top.
Communications between cities
The Roman Empire was very extensive at the time and needed to create communications with all its towns and cities. So they had to create roads and communication methods between cities such as aqueducts. How did they communicate with the aqueducts? Floating letters and notes were sent and even, in case of invasion, the water was dyed red to send messages in secret.
Wine tradition, its gods and its symbols
The Romans maintained the winemaking tradition established by the Phoenicians. The Romans brought their gods closer to our territory. As is the case with Dionisio. He is the god of wine and fertility. They created festivals that have maintained to this day, such as the grape harvest. Today, Dionisio continues to be the patron of the city of Jerez.
Bullfighting and horse racing
Bullfighting and horse racing are ancient activities that some historians relate to an adaptation of the activities that were carried out in the amphitheaters. Roman society enjoyed the activities of the capital and took him to all the big cities. These activities have lasted until now. The breeding of bulls and horses have been a great support for the economy.
The culture and history left by the Romans during their settlement in Hispania left their mark on us. A trace that reaches our days. If you want to know more and know the history of Hispania, contact us.