Mention the main features of Arikamedu
Answers
Over the years, archaeological evidence has indicated that this was the location of an ancient Roman emporium or an ancient trading outpost. The luxury-loving Roman Empire spread its trade network far and wide to procure exotic and opulent commodities for its citizens. Centuries ago, it was at this very spot that Roman ships thronged, laden with amphora jars of wine and olive oil. Cotton, sandalwood, peacock feathers, gemstones and, of course, spices formed part of the fantastic treasure trove which the Roman merchants took back with them. Such perilous voyages, though profitable, took more than a year to complete.
With a little bit of imagination, it is easy to imagine this place alive with bustling Romans negotiating with locals, servants loading and unloading goods, warehouses stocked with items for trade, and blacksmiths and carpenters working on spare parts for the ships. These ships would then reach the Roman shores where their bounty would probably be used by the rulers and wealthy aristocrats. It was during the times of emperors like Augustus (27 BC–14 AD), Claudius (41–54 AD) and Nero (AD 54–68) that this trading post reached its zenith. Archival records in Rome mention aristocratic ladies saving their powders and creams from India, waiting to use them when meeting their lovers. The goods were so popular that the authorities often expressed concern over the huge outflow of Roman bullion into India. According to one anecdote, the Roman Emperor Tiberius actually chided senators for wasting their wealth on the purchase of Indian merchandise. There was enjoyment, however, on both sides. In the ancient Tamil text Purananuru, the poet encourages a Pandyan king to taste the sweet-scented teral (wine) brought in by Roman ships.
The site was first discovered in the mid-1700s by the French astronomer Le Gentile. Over the centuries it has been excavated a number of times, notably by Dr. Eric Mortimer Wheeler (of Indus Valley fame) in 1944. Many of the artifacts from the site, including beads and pottery, are on display at the Pondicherry Museum.
1. Location: Pondicherry. It was a coastal settlement.
2.It has a massive brick, structure, which may have warehouse.
3.Roman lamps, glassware, gums, etc, were also found.
4.Dying water used for dying clothes were found