Recent archaeological discoveries have pointed to the conclusion that ancient Romans probably used fossils of extinct sea creatures—trilobites—as amulets. This fascinating discovery tells us much about the cultural milieu of the Roman Empire. It especially brings to the fore their passion for natural history at the time.
A rare fossil of a trilobite was discovered in the Roman city of A Cibdá de Armea, near today’s Pereiro de Aguiar in northwestern Spain. The find opens a window into Roman tastes. This fossil dates from the 1st-3rd centuries CE. It is remarkable to be the first confirmed trilobite from Roman times and one of only three known fossils that humans knowingly collected and used over a millennium ago.
Augustus’s Passion for Fossils
Emperor Augustus, the first Roman emperor, famously hoarded an impressive trove of fossils. Contemporary fiction presents him as a passionate and crazed collector, details of whose obsession had him import unusual specimens, even makeups from Greece. His passion for fossils inspired him to dig in the island of Capri. There, he sought to expand and deepen his collection.
Augustus’s fascination with these ecological relics seems to have affected the cultural practices of his era. However, there are indications that his interest went beyond just collection. He probably appreciated fossils for their mystical qualities. Fossils and amulets reveal an interesting relationship. This relationship points to a larger trend in Roman society, where natural objects were imbued with rich cultural meaning.
Unique Characteristics of the Trilobite Fossil
The newly discovered trilobite fossil displays some very unique features. It’s been saved in the form of a natural cast—mineralized with iron oxide. This geologic process accounts for its unusual reddish color coming from deep weathering. This striking coloration adds to its charm and points to the possibility that it could have been purposefully grown because of its aesthetic value.
The fossil demonstrates signs of anthropogenic alteration such as seven irreplaceable aspects. These facets were probably for the purpose of making the fossil flat, and of use in jewelry, like pendants or bracelets. These changes demonstrate the intentional and measured manner in which the Romans interacted with these ancient remains.
“Significance of fossils in Roman times: the first trilobite find in an early Empire context” – Adolfo Fernández-Fernández et al.
The location of the discovery makes it more intriguing. The significant distance between the discovery and its suspected place of origin suggests a remarkable story. Ancient Romans probably moved the fossil on purpose. Whether by necessity or choice, this behavior reflects the extensive systems of trade and cultural exchange that were present across the empire.
Archaeological Context and Implications
Most significantly, the trilobite fossil was excavated in the same archeological layer as a bronze coin depicting Emperor Augustus Colonia from around 11-12 BC. This new connection to a living relative adds confidence to the dating of the fossil. It proposes a clear connection between the emperor’s ruling and the ritualistic use of fossils.
This find also has an important place in the wider study of Roman archaeology. Only eleven trilobites have been found in an archaeological context. This rarity doesn’t just make them incredible—they’re importance extends well beyond a basic love of fossils. Instead, it contributes to a growing understanding of how ancient civilizations interacted with their natural environments and incorporated elements of them into their daily lives.