1,900-Year-Old Roman Tile Workshop Unearthed in Corsica!
Archaeologists from the French National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research (INRAP) have made an extraordinary discovery on Corsica’s east coast, near the Étang de Diane lagoon. While preparing the site for a real estate project, they uncovered a 1,900-year-old Roman tile production workshop, shedding light on the island’s industrial past.
Photo Credit: Brice Chevaux, Inrap
Prehistoric Beginnings
Excavations began in July and revealed evidence of human habitation dating back to the Early Iron Age. The team identified around 50 structures, some made of stone and others of perishable materials like wood, as indicated by surviving post holes. Among the finds were local ceramics, imported Etruscan pottery, and tools such as millstones and grinding wheels. Charcoal deposits, broken vessels, and fragmented tools suggest domestic activities, while pebble arrangements hint at building foundations.
This prehistoric settlement predates Roman occupation and stretches beyond the current excavation area, making it challenging to fully map its layout.
Photo Credit: Brice Chevaux, Inrap
Roman Industrial Hub
To the south of the prehistoric site, closer to the water, archaeologists uncovered a well-preserved Roman tile production workshop. INRAP noted that this site features all stages of the tile-making process. A large clay-decanting basin, constructed with tiles (tegulae) and measuring 4.3 metres in diameter, was the starting point. The processed clay was then shaped and fired in a kiln with a double-vaulted heating chamber, housed within a robust structure made of pebbles and lime mortar.
Nearby, a warehouse supported by buttresses likely stored finished tiles, while surrounding pits contained waste from the kiln and misfired tiles. A road leading to the workshop highlights its connectivity and the transport of goods.
The Context of Roman Corsica
Corsica came under Roman control in 163 BCE following prolonged military campaigns. Under Roman rule, the island flourished economically, with Latin influencing the local dialect and shaping what is now the Corsican language. The workshop, dated to the first century CE, exemplifies Roman industrial ingenuity and reflects the island’s economic vibrancy during this period.
Photo Credit: Brice Chevaux, Inrap
Burials at the Site
On the outskirts of the workshop, archaeologists found eight graves, most constructed using tiles and stones. One grave, a pottery urn, might contain cinerary remains. Unfortunately, the region's acidic soil has destroyed skeletal remains, but grave goods, including ceramic vessels and glass balsamaria, were preserved. These burials likely date to the operational period of the workshop, and further analysis is planned to confirm this.
Although the excavation will conclude in December to accommodate the real estate development, the archaeological materials will undergo further study in 2025. A multidisciplinary team of ceramologists, anthropologists, and other specialists will analyse the finds to refine grave dating and deepen our understanding of the site’s historical significance.
This discovery not only highlights Corsica’s importance during Roman times but also uncovers the intricate connection between its prehistoric and Roman past, offering a glimpse into the island's rich heritage.