Horno Romano de El Gallinero

The Horno Romano de El Gallinero in Puerto Real, Spain, is a fascinating archaeological site that offers a unique glimpse into the ancient Roman industrial activities along the coast of Andalusia. This historic location, nestled in a recently urbanized area of Puerto Real, has become one of the most significant archaeological treasures in the region, captivating visitors with its well-preserved remains and intriguing history.

The History of Horno Romano de El Gallinero

The story of the Horno Romano de El Gallinero begins with its discovery and subsequent excavations. The site was first brought to light by M. Ponsich and is located near the coast, in connection with the El Trocadero channel, at the western edge of Puerto Real's urban area. The initial excavation in 1991 revealed four areas of ceramic waste and identified the location of a Roman kiln during the construction of new houses. This discovery marked the beginning of a series of archaeological interventions aimed at uncovering and preserving the ancient kiln.

In 1993, further excavations resumed, leading to the detailed documentation of the kiln structure. The kiln was found to have produced various types of amphorae, including Dr. 7B and 8, 10B, 10C, and 10D, dating back to the first quarter of the 1st century AD, particularly its second half. Additionally, the excavations uncovered several graffiti on the pivots of the containers and a circular cartouche mark, interpreted by some as OETR S and by others as SPERTI.

Subsequent excavations, driven by the construction of new housing developments, uncovered a second kiln with a similar structure to the first, albeit partially destroyed at the grill level. This second kiln, along with other small, quadrangular structures of uncertain functionality, and its corresponding ceramic waste area, provided further insights into the industrial activities of the time. The production and chronology of this second kiln were found to be similar to those of the first.

In 2001, the first kiln underwent a cleaning and consolidation intervention, with efforts to enhance its value as a historical site. However, it wasn't until 2011 that the site was fully restored and opened to the public, allowing visitors to appreciate its historical significance fully.

The Structure of the Kiln

The Horno Romano de El Gallinero is a prime example of Roman ceramic kilns, characterized by a circular firing chamber constructed with perimeter walls forming a circumference. Inside this structure, a grill supported by a central pillar, with a series of arches emanating from it, aided in its support. The central pillar stands about 15 cm high. The firing chamber, separated by the grill and located above the combustion chamber, housed the ceramic objects, preventing direct contact with the fire.

Access to the combustion chamber was through an opening known as the praefurnium, oriented to the south, while the firing chamber had a simple access point to the east. The kiln is surrounded by three walls or buttresses, possibly serving as protection against the wind and aiding in its structural support. It is believed that the kiln was partially excavated into the ground and later covered with ceramic fragments.

This type of kiln, known as Cuomo I A, was well-established in the Bay of Cádiz area during the early Imperial period (1st century AD). These kilns are characterized by their circular shape and grill supported by a central pillar. The perimeter walls of the kiln were created using horizontally arranged ceramic fragments, sometimes alternating with brick or stone elements.

The Importance of the Kiln

The Horno Romano de El Gallinero holds significant historical and archaeological value, dating back to the 1st century AD. It provides crucial documentation within the system of figlinae (ceramic kilns) in the Bay of Cádiz. During this period, the export of fish salting products, primarily to other parts of the Roman Empire, required a substantial auxiliary pottery industry for producing containers. The ceramic kilns were an essential link in the production chain that supported the local economy.

Visiting the Horno Romano de El Gallinero offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the ancient industrial activities that once thrived in this region. The site's well-preserved remains and informative displays provide valuable insights into the Roman pottery industry and its role in the broader economic landscape of the time.

In conclusion, the Horno Romano de El Gallinero is not just an archaeological site; it is a window into the past, revealing the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the ancient Romans. Its historical significance and well-preserved structure make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. As you wander through this ancient site, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, bringing to life the vibrant industrial activities that once took place here in Puerto Real.