Archaeologists have successfully mapped the urban layout of Ubeda la Vieja, an ancient Roman colony also known as Salaria, located in Andalusia, Spain. This groundbreaking discovery, made in May 2025, provides valuable insights into Roman urban planning and daily life in this region of Iberia.
Researchers from the Institute of Iberian Archaeology at the University of Jaen employed advanced non-invasive techniques, including drone imagery and geophysical surveys, to uncover the layout. This approach allowed them to study the site extensively without the need for traditional excavations, preserving the archaeological integrity of Ubeda la Vieja.
The team's work focuses on understanding the transformations that occurred in Salaria, particularly the blending of Iberian and Roman cultures. By analyzing the urban structure, they aim to gain insights into changes in construction methods, social dynamics, and the overall impact of Roman colonization on the existing Iberian population. This research contributes significantly to understanding the complexities of cultural interaction in Roman Iberia.