Interamna Lirenas: Roman City Thrived Long After Empire's Decline, New Evidence Shows

Archaeological Dig Rewrites History of Roman Empire's Collapse

Recent excavations in central Italy reveal that the Roman city of Interamna Lirenas not only survived but thrived for centuries after the fall of the Roman Empire, challenging previous theories about Rome's decline.

Led by Alessandro Launaro of the University of Cambridge, the team's analysis using magnetic radar and ground-penetrating techniques uncovered a vibrant city that adapted to challenges for nearly 900 years.

Discoveries include a roofed theater capable of holding 1,500 spectators, markets, warehouses, and a river port, indicating an active commercial and cultural center. The city focused on producing common pottery for cooking, rather than importing luxury goods, allowing researchers to trace its continuous occupation to the 3rd century AD.

Archaeologists believe the city's abandonment was gradual, motivated by fear of marauding armies rather than a catastrophic event, suggesting a community decision to disperse while maintaining commercial and social activity until the last moment. This discovery rewrites the history of the Roman Empire, showing that the fall was not as uniform or abrupt as previously thought.