The Oiasso Roman Museum, located in Irun, Gipuzkoa, offers a comprehensive exploration of the Roman presence in the Basque Country. The museum focuses on the Roman port city of Oiasso, which was an important hub for trade and maritime activity during the Roman Empire.
Oiasso’s strategic location at the mouth of the Bidasoa River made it a key port for commerce between Aquitania and Hispania. The city flourished from the 1st to the 5th centuries AD, playing a significant role in the Roman economy.
The Oiasso Roman Museum showcases the rich archaeological discoveries made in the area, providing insights into various aspects of Roman life:
- Port Activity: The museum highlights Oiasso’s importance as a port, displaying artifacts related to maritime trade, such as anchors, amphorae (used for transporting goods), and ship models.
- Daily Life: Exhibits showcase objects used in daily life, including pottery, tools, jewelry, and personal items, offering a glimpse into the lives of Oiasso’s inhabitants.
- Mining and Metallurgy: The region surrounding Oiasso was rich in mineral resources, and the museum explores the Roman mining and metallurgical activities, displaying tools and examples of metalwork.
- Funerary Practices: The museum also features exhibits related to Roman funerary practices, including tombstones and burial artifacts.
- Interactive Displays: The museum utilizes interactive displays, models, and reconstructions to enhance the visitor experience and make the Roman world more accessible.
The museum’s collection is based on archaeological excavations conducted in Irun and the surrounding area. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Roman presence in the Basque Country and the importance of Oiasso as a Roman port city.
More information: https://www.oiasso.com/
