- Claudio Giardino –
A similar situation, where the metallurgical activity served the construction of a
temple, is also likely to be present in Rome of the Tarquins: evidence of iron forging has
been found in the area where the Temple of Jupiter Capitolinus was erected (Giardino,
Lugli 2001). Even at Pyrgi the presence of metallurgical activity is attested, connected
again with the sanctuary. Some lead ingots from inside the sacred area actually contained
fragments of hematite and iron slag, the latter linked to smithing activity (Fig. 37.16).
The ingots, dating to the early decades of the fi fth century bc, were apparently produced
by deliberately putting in them waste material that was stored in the vicinity; this
insertion may perhaps have been for ritual purposes. The ingots were produced most
probably at the site: a lead melting activity is testifi ed by the recovering of lead clasps
and casting drops (Saviano et al. 2006: 78–79).
From the sanctuary of Gravisca comes evidence for the processing of iron, copper and
lead attributable to the sixth-fi fth century bc: clay fragments of furnaces were observed –
of which the bases are preserved – together with slag, casting residues, and blacksmith’s
tongs (Fiorini 2001: 136–137; Franceschi, Luciano 2005).
A copper ingot fragment with low impurities was found near the village of Piano
di Stigliano (Canale Monterano, Rome), near the Tolfa Mountains: the association with
pottery allows it to be dated to the sixth century bc (Zifferero 1992: 84–85).
Figure 37.15 Hammerscales from San Giovenale (Blera, Viterbo).Figure 37.16 Lead ingots containing iron slag (see arrows), from Pyrgi (Santa Severa, Rome).