Norba Caesarina

Norba Caesarina, nestled in the heart of Cáceres, Spain, is a captivating Roman city that whispers tales of ancient grandeur and historical intrigue. Founded in the last third of the 1st century BC, this site offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, where echoes of Roman civilization still linger amidst the modern landscape of Extremadura.

The Founding of Norba Caesarina

The story of Norba Caesarina begins in 34 BC, during the era of the Second Triumvirate. It was established under the auspices of the Roman Proconsul Gaius Norbanus Flaccus, following the strategic directives laid out by Julius Caesar. The city was named to honor both its founder and the great Caesar himself, reflecting the deep-rooted connections to Rome's illustrious leaders. The settlers were aligned with the Sergia tribe, sharing a direct link with their city's founder.

A City of Strategic Importance

Norba Caesarina was not just any Roman settlement; it was a colonia, a status that marked it as a colony of Roman citizens. Initially part of the Roman province of Hispania Ulterior, it later became integrated into the province of Lusitania. The city's strategic importance was underscored by its association with the conventus iuridicus Emeritensis, with Augusta Emerita (modern-day Mérida) as its capital.

The Roman geographer Pliny the Elder noted that Norba Caesarina oversaw the ancient camps of Castra Servilia and Castra Cecilia. These camps, established during the Republican era, were situated near the present-day city of Cáceres, highlighting the city's role as a regional hub.

Life in Norba Caesarina

During its peak from the 1st to the 3rd century AD, Norba Caesarina flourished as a vibrant Roman city. Although it functioned as a satellite of Augusta Emerita, it sought to assert its own identity and significance. The local elite demonstrated loyalty to Roman emperors, as evidenced by honorary inscriptions and statues, such as one dedicated to Emperor Trajan.

However, the city's fortunes began to wane with the rise of the Severan dynasty. Despite political upheavals, the city maintained its allegiance to Septimius Severus, erecting a commemorative statue to honor him. The mid-3rd century brought instability, prompting the construction of a defensive wall using repurposed materials from earlier structures.

Archaeological Remnants

Today, visitors to Norba Caesarina can explore the remnants of its Roman past. The archaeological site reveals traces of the city's grandeur, including blocks of squared stones and typical Roman ashlar masonry. The Arco del Cristo, a well-preserved arch dating back to the 1st century, stands as a testament to the city's architectural prowess.

Excavations at the Mayoralgo Palace have unearthed a wealth of artifacts, including ceramics, a porticoed courtyard, and a cistern from the high imperial period. These finds provide a window into daily life in the Roman colony, with evidence of thermal baths and a blacksmith's workshop from the later imperial period.

The Surrounding Area

Beyond the city itself, the surrounding region is dotted with archaeological treasures. The nearby defensive towers of Cuarto Roble and El Junquillo offer glimpses into the rural landscape that supported Norba Caesarina. Additionally, the famed Vía de la Plata, a major Roman road, passed close to the colony, linking it to the broader network of Roman infrastructure.

Unearthing History

While much of Norba Caesarina remains hidden beneath the modern city of Cáceres, ongoing archaeological efforts continue to reveal its secrets. Inscriptions, statues, and other artifacts housed in the Cáceres Museum provide valuable insights into the city's storied past. Among these treasures is a bronze statue fragment from the Mayoralgo Palace, showcasing the artistic achievements of Roman sculptors.

Norba Caesarina stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Roman civilization in Spain. Its ruins, though sparse, evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity, inviting visitors to imagine a time when this city thrived as a beacon of Roman culture and influence. As you wander through the remnants of this ancient settlement, you are transported back to a world where emperors and ordinary citizens alike walked the cobbled streets, leaving behind a rich tapestry of history for future generations to discover.