By examining lead levels in strata of mud in the harbors of Rome, archaeologists can track Roman wealth from the city’s spending on aquaducts and sewer systems. And not just the quantity of lead — detecting different isotopes of lead can point to the imports of lead from around the Empire, denoting the health of imperial commerce.
Very cool.
Plumbing discovery reveals the rise and fall of the Roman Empire
Ancient lead pollution in a Roman harbor shows the city’s fortunes grew with its pipes.
81 view(s)
Ah yes, Ostia.