Original scientific paper

Roman roads and the late ancient rural landscape in Jabuka and Velić near Trilj

Miroslav Katić ; Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments, Split, Croatia

Abstract

This paper presents a new interpretation of the late ancient rural landscape in the areas of Jabuka and Velić near Trilj, based on the analysis of a LiDAR image, field reconnaissance of the area and targeted archaeological investigations that led to the discovery of a complex and well-preserved pastoral-agricultural estate. Particular attention is also devoted to the network of Roman roads. The main (magistral) road enabled the distribution and trade of surplus goods from the estate, while a network
of vicinal roads supported its internal organization and connected its various production units. The analysis of the LiDAR image revealed a complex arrangement of elongated stone-and-earth structures, dry-stone walls, animal pens and pathways, which, due to their morphology, were difficult to date and interpret in terms of their function and purpose. This problem was partially resolved through archaeological investigations of two late ancient houses at the sites of Biluše and Osoje. The previously
investigated site of Krcina ograda (Krce’s pen) appears to have served as the administrative and ecclesiastical centre of the estate (saltus). The management of this territory was primarily based on extensive animal husbandry and a planned system of landscape organization. This paper also examines zones associated with the exploitation of building stone, sand and the production of quicklime, all of which testify to the existence of an integrated production and distribution infrastructure. It also highlights the significance of the late ancient fort of Čačvina, which controlled the roads and surrounding territory and ensured the stability of economic activities. The findings confirm that the saltus in Velić represented an extensive late ancient rural enterprise, distinct from the classical model of the villa rustica. It was characterised by a complex spatial organization
devoted to livestock management and by the systematic exploitation of local mineral resources, resulting in a profound and lasting transformation of the landscape.

Keywords

Jabuka; Velić; Vedrine; Čačvina; late ancient rural landscape; Roman roads; sand exploitation; late ancient quarry; animal husbandry; saltus; dry-stone architecture

Hrčak ID:

353282

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/353282

Publication date:

31.12.2025.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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