First elements about the Roman villa of Morgado (Vila Franca de Xira)

Abstract

The archaeological site of Morgado, despite being recognized early, persists in not being properly investigated. With this paper we intend to provide an overview of the available knowledge, both from collections deposited at the Vila Franca de Xira Municipal Museum and from recent intensive field research. The study of the significant ceramic group attests to a broad chronology of occupation centered between the 1st and 5th centuries AD. The various testimonies analyzed here allow us to give an interpretation of an extensive occupation of Villa type. The relevance of this station and its archaeological, scientific and heritage potential lead us to emphasize the imperative need for its safeguarding.