Archaeological campaign at El Forau de la Tuta concludes with significant new discoveries

Archaeological work carried out over recent weeks has significantly expanded current knowledge of the ancient Roman city of El Forau de la Tuta. In addition to the mosaics discovered during the 2021 and 2022 campaigns, interpreted as part of a monumental thermal complex, researchers have now uncovered an additional 40 square metres of black-and-white geometric mosaic, identified as part of the frigidarium, or cold room, of the baths.

According to ARAID researcher Jorge Angás, who coordinates the excavations alongside Paula Uribe, Lara Íñiguez and M.ª Ángeles Magallón, the team did not expect to find such a large extension of mosaic in an area that was thought to have already yielded most of its archaeological information. The campaign also documented new sewer structures linked to the thermal complex, providing further insight into the organisation and functioning of this important Roman facility.

The research is being led by the University of Zaragoza and the Institute for Heritage and Humanities (IPH), in collaboration with the Institut Ausonius (CNRS–Université Bordeaux Montaigne). The project brings together specialists in archaeology, cultural heritage and geospatial technologies applied to the study and documentation of historical sites.

The results of the campaign were shared with the public during the 6th Open Day, held on 25 July, which brought together 270 participants. During the visits, members of the research team explained the latest excavation results, presented the methodologies used in the field and showcased some of the most relevant discoveries. The event also included educational activities and the premiere of a new audiovisual presentation dedicated to the history of the site and the progress of archaeological research carried out to date.

The 2026 campaign has also advanced the study of a new excavation sector selected through non-invasive remote-sensing techniques. These investigations continue to provide valuable information on the size, internal organisation and historical development of this Roman settlement, considered one of the most promising archaeological sites in Aragón. The project is supported by the Artieda Town Council, the Government of Aragón, ARAID, the University of Zaragoza, the Institut Ausonius (CNRS–Université Bordeaux Montaigne) and several national and European research initiatives dedicated to the study, conservation and dissemination of archaeological heritage.