AQUILEIA

PATRIMONIO DELL'UMANITÀ

giovedì 10 ottobre 2024

Pasqualis-Markets Zone

Fondo Pasqualis-Mercati, Aquileia | Foto: © Gianluca Baronchelli
During the 4th-5th century AD, the commercial activities and the loading / unloading of goods had progressively moved from the river port area to the southern part of Aquileia, corresponding to the archaeological area now included in the Pasqualis Fund.

In the late imperial age, the southern markets of Aquileia arose here, connected to the nearby course of the Natissa, as evidenced by the openings found in the late antique city walls and functional to the loading and unloading of goods.

Today three paved areas are visible, corresponding to the ancient market squares. It was in all likelihood an area in ancient times that was certainly pulsating with life, where people used to go to shop and socialize, as suggested by the game boards (tabulae lusoriae) engraved in the curbs of one of the squares.

The markets were connected to the huge warehouse that was located immediately north of them, adjacent to the first Christian episcopal complex, built by Bishop Theodore.