In a remarkable discovery on the east coast of Corsica, archaeologists from the French National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research (INRAP) have unearthed a 1,900-year-old Roman tile production workshop near the Étang de Diane lagoon. This significant find, uncovered ahead of a planned real estate development, provides a fascinating glimpse into Roman industrial ingenuity and early human occupation on the island.
The Excavation Context
The excavation, which began in July 2024, was conducted to ensure any historical remains were documented before construction commenced. Located on Corsica’s east coast, the site yielded unexpected treasures spanning from the Early Iron Age to Roman times. The research revealed two distinct layers of occupation: a prehistoric settlement and a sophisticated Roman tile production facility.
As INRAP archaeologists dug deeper into the site, they uncovered valuable insights into ancient life, industrial processes, and burial practices.
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Prehistoric Settlement: Traces of Early Life
Before the Roman occupation, the site hosted a prehistoric settlement dating back to the Early Iron Age. Evidence of this early human activity includes 50 structures, some crafted from stone and others with perishable materials like wood, indicated by post holes.
Key findings from the prehistoric layer include:
- Domestic artifacts: Local ceramic shards, imported Etruscan pottery, and macrolithic tools such as millstones and grinding wheels.
- Pits and remains: Pits filled with charcoal, fragmented tools, and broken vessels, suggesting daily domestic activities like food preparation.
- Pebble formations: Likely remnants of building foundations.
This prehistoric community reveals an organized and resourceful society, but much of the site remains unexcavated. The settlement likely extends beyond the current dig area, holding more secrets yet to be discovered.
The Roman Tile Production Workshop
South of the prehistoric settlement, archaeologists uncovered a sprawling Roman tile production workshop, dating to the first century CE. The site showcases a complete tile manufacturing process, offering rare insights into Roman industrial expertise.
Clay Preparation and Kiln
The first step in tile production involved preparing the clay. Archaeologists discovered a 14-foot-wide decanting basin made of tiles (tegulae), where clay was processed and purified. The next stage involved shaping the clay and firing it in a sophisticated kiln.
The kiln, notable for its double-vaulted heating chamber, was housed in a sturdy structure constructed with pebbles embedded in lime mortar. This durable construction reflects the Romans’ advanced engineering techniques and attention to detail.
Storage and Waste Management
Adjacent to the kiln, the team uncovered a warehouse supported by buttresses, likely used for storing finished tiles. Nearby pits contained kiln waste and misfired tiles, suggesting an efficient production system that minimized disruption caused by defects.
Connectivity and Transport
A well-preserved road leading to the workshop indicates that the site was connected to nearby settlements and trade routes. This road would have facilitated the transport of goods, further emphasizing the workshop’s role in the region’s economy.
The sheer scale of the workshop and its craftsmanship demonstrate the island’s industrial importance under Roman rule, highlighting a thriving local economy during this period.
The Burials: Graves at the Workshop Outskirts
At the edge of the tile production site, archaeologists discovered eight graves, adding a layer of intrigue to the excavation. These burials likely coincide with the workshop’s operational period, raising questions about their significance.
Key details include:
- Grave construction: Most graves were built with tiles and stones, while one consisted of a pottery urn, possibly containing cremated remains.
- Artifacts and grave goods: Ceramic vessels and glass balsamaria (small containers for perfumes or oils) were found within the graves, providing clues to funerary customs of the time.
- Preservation challenges: Due to the acidic nature of the soil, skeletal remains did not survive, leaving only artifacts for analysis.
The burials add a human element to the site, hinting at the lives of workers or individuals associated with the workshop.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The discovery of this Roman tile workshop is a testament to Corsica’s rich and layered history.
Corsica came under Roman control in 163 BCE after prolonged military campaigns. Under Roman administration, the island’s economy thrived. The Romans introduced advanced techniques in agriculture, industry, and infrastructure, leaving a lasting legacy on the island.
The Roman influence also extended to language and culture, significantly shaping the Corsican dialect that exists today.
The workshop’s design reflects the advanced skills of Roman engineers and artisans. The organized layout—from clay preparation to storage and waste disposal—illustrates an industrial process far ahead of its time. This discovery sheds light on how the Romans capitalized on local resources to sustain economic growth.
Future Research and Preservation
While the excavation concludes in December 2024 to make way for real estate development, the findings will be studied extensively throughout 2025. A multidisciplinary team of experts, including ceramologists and anthropologists, will analyze the artifacts to refine dating, understand burial practices, and assess the site’s broader significance.
This research aims to provide deeper insights into Roman industry and daily life in Corsica, bridging the gap between archaeological findings and historical narratives.
Conclusion
The discovery of the 1,900-year-old Roman tile workshop near the Étang de Diane lagoon offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman industrial ingenuity and prehistoric human occupation in Corsica. From advanced tile production techniques to early Iron Age settlements, the site tells a story of resilience, resourcefulness, and cultural evolution. As researchers continue to analyze the findings, this excavation not only preserves history but also enriches our understanding of ancient societies.
