University of Trier discovers ancient trade routes on the Moselle with bite

University of Trier discovers ancient trade routes on the Moselle with bite

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Scientific explorations on the water

The research of ancient trade routes has achieved a new dimension because the research team of the University of Trier is traveling on the Moselle with a faithful Roman sail freighter called "Bissula". This action aims to create an interactive digital maritime atlas that documents the Roman seafaring.

The goal of the project

A central aspect of this innovative project is the creation of a digital atlass based on data collected during test drives. These test drives took place in the Mediterranean and provided important information about the performance of the ship. The head of the project, Christoph Schäfer, explained that the simulations will enable them to present sea routes under realistic conditions for the Roman Empire.

The importance of the "bissula"

The "Bissula" is a typical example of commercial vehicles in the Roman Empire. Between 2017 and 2019, it was rebuilt in Trier with the means of students and craftsmen. Their 16 meter long and 5 meter wide design reflects the technologies of antiquity, with the ship being able to transport significant loads such as grain and olive oil. The knowledge gained from the test drives is of great importance for the scientists because they specify the assumptions about antique silk paths.

Digital simulations as progress

The access to 20 years of weather data is particularly noteworthy that corresponds to the conditions of the Roman Empire. This enables the research team to precisely calculate travel times to the day. "On this basis, we can calculate the optimal routes that the Roman captains could have taken with the 'bit'," said Schäfer. These quantitative data will significantly advance academic research through Roman seafaring.

Planning of future research

The virtual simulations of the "bissula" are only the beginning of a long -term project that is supposed to grow over the next few years. It is planned to include other types of ships in future studies. However, since the replica of antique ships in original size is an enormous effort, the team is considering producing models in scale one to three to create more cost -effective test options.

A look into the future

The project for researching Roman seafaring is supported by the German Research Foundation by 2030 and could have far -reaching effects on our understanding of the ancient trade structures. The scientists: Interior of the University of Trier are confident that the knowledge gained is not only of interest to historians, but also for the broader public who is interested in the fascinating aspects of Roman history.

After all, this research is not only a revival of ancient history, but also an important memory of how history can be reinterpreted by modern technology.