Ancient Rome flourished in soils that were vastly different from today. Culturally, surrounded by the Mediterranean’s balmy temperatures, agriculturally, nourished by the Sapo River, this advanced civilization was able to create astonishing feats of engineering, architecture and a way of life that echoed for centuries. The incredible influence that Roman soil had is largely due to its three main characteristics: variability, fertility and adaptability. From soil fertility to deforestation; farmers to aspects of Roman agriculture, let’s find out exactly what type of soil made Ancient Rome what it is today.
Soil Variability
The Roman soil proved extremely resilient, with varying levels of fertility. The land was determined according to usage, with terracing and waterways adding yet further evidence of Roman expertise in soil cultivation. However, depending on the latitude of the soil, the climate and the landmark, the detail and the depth of the soil profile would vary substantially. The Italian coastline was made up from a plethora of soils including cussed and sandy, limy, sandy-muddy and limy-muddy. To the north were alluvial and colluvial soils including plates of sand, clay and limestone.
In the more central areas of the Roman Republic and alluvial plateaus more substantial deposits of terrigenous slate, which was commonly used for building and trading, were in evidence. Moving even further north the soil situation changed again, the soils of the Alpine region were more porous, providing more challenging conditions for cultivation, but these provided greater harvest yields.
Soil Fertility
The agricultural prowess of the Romans is well documented with their remarkable irrigation systems, waterwheels and agricultural tools. Roman farmers kept cows, pigs and sheep and, as a result of their fertility and innovation, were self-sufficient in their bread and staples. Soils were lorded over by an aggressive and well-planned agronomic system. With ample resources, inroads were also made in mining and increasingly efficient, expansive farming systems. One such example was the “Paullic system” this was an ambitious attempt at terracing and land usage innovation.
Deforestation
The profligacy of the Ancient Romans had a huge effect on the soils. Equally, the pollution of cities with persistent build-up of ash, smoke and the eradication of forests changed the soil drastically. Deforestation was problematic and led to soil fertility decreasing substantially, this deleterious effect was greatly exacerbated by deforestation to use as fuel or to clear land for farming.
Crop Yields
The yields from the Roman provinces can give us an indication of the soil fertility and climate. Almost a third of the harvest was olives and grapes this total was further bolstered by an abundance of other crops such as millet, grass, fodder and wheat. A combination of factors lead to significant crop successes these included the convenient climate, the well maintained soil and the canny use of animal waste and other augments.
Aspects of Roman Agriculture
The Roman farmer’s strive for better harvest was supported by their authorities in many ways. With a focus on perfecting the sowing of crops and the use of specific soils, Rome took steps to increase the yields and the quality of the crops. It was well known that certain crops responded better to specific soils and with this in mind, the Romans included a list of hillsides and plains suitable for olive and grape raising within Rome. Furthermore, the Roman crop schedule was designed to ensure an efficient use of available soil as they spread different kinds of crops across the areas that they inhabited.
Tools and Technology
Ancient Rome’s impressive engineering feats were mirrored with the level of advancement in their tools. As well as their use of lever propelled waterwheels, the Romans produced incredible tools to make agriculture easier, more efficient, and more fruitful. Their iron plow, the cuspis was highly advanced for its time and it is thought that invention had its origins in the North African region of Numidia. The Romans also used hoes, pickaxes and other simple tools to help them cultivate the soil.
Effects of Roman Soil on Future Generations
The effects of Roman soil on future generations were significant. The impact of Roman soil on Europe, in particular is still seen today, with vineyards featuring prominently in many areas. There is evidence to suggest that the Romans had the idea of terracing hillsides to help reclaim degraded soils and hold water. Additionally, the Romans used terracing techniques to help control the overall temperature.[1] Furthermore, the Sapo River, which was a fertile water source, was also harnessed by the Romans to irrigate crops, as they developed a sophisticated system of canals.
Soil Fertility and Quality Control
The astounding level of ingenuity meant that Rome was able to grow crops more efficiently and condition the quality of their soil. It was an elaborate system of fertilisers and manures that contributed to the soil fertility of their early agricultural empire. The Roman Empire was powerful and sought control in all areas, including soil quality. A rigorous quality control was retained over their soil and depended upon for their success.
Soil Conservation
The Roman Empire was well aware of the need for soil conservation. To reduce loss from erosion and water runoff, Rome built diversion ditches, dams, and other hydraulic systems to help control flooding and soil erosion. They also planted trees and shrubs all over the countryside to help prevent further soil degradation. Their ability to control the soils and conserve them helped to sustain the empire for generations.
Soil Types Across Europe
The vast area of the Roman Empire has a very diverse selection of soils and climates. To the south, the soil was mostly brown and sandy, meant for grazing land, while in the north and centre, the soils were richer and black, with more fertility thanks to better moisture and water retention.[2] Across Europe, in regions where the soil was more suitable for agriculture, the Roman farmers made great use of the land, producing fruits, vegetables, grains, and other important commodities. Many of these soil types were then spread across the continent by Roman traders and farmers, so the soil fertility of Europe today is largely thanks to the Romans.
Famous Roman Soils
The ancient city of Rome is home to some of the most famous archaeological sites in Europe. The Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Forum are all constructed in an area known as Ancient Terra, a type of soil that was noted for its strength, fertility, and durability. This soil is still used today for archaeological excavations and is known for retaining its structure for thousands of years. It is also used as a base for roads and other construction projects, thanks to its proven strength and stability.
Change in Soil Fertility Over Time
Throughout the ages, Rome’s soils have experienced a myriad of changes and alterations. Contamination from chemicals and other pollutants has degraded the soil fertility, while deforestation has seen the number of trees on the landscape drop drastically. However, modern agriculture, such as sustainable and organic farming, has seen a marked improvement in soil fertility in some areas. These management practices have led to an increase in crop yields, soil health, and water infiltration, thereby improving the quality of the soil.
Soil Quality In Rome Today
Today, the soils of Ancient Rome are still incredibly fertile and versatile. While they have changed since the Roman period, with modern contaminants and agricultural practices, the majority of soils are still suitable for growing a variety of crops. The Roman Empire’s advanced means of soil management has been an invaluable resource for agriculture and is still used in many parts of the world today. It has helped many farmers to achieve higher yields and higher quality produce, demonstrating just how much Rome’s advanced soil management techniques have changed the way we cultivate and use our soils.
