Abelterium: Geometric Mosaics from the Villae of Casa da Medusa and Quinta do Pião

Abstract

The study of geometric mosaics from Casa da Medusa and Quinta do Pião has made a significant contribution towards understanding both the decorative project of these villae in Abelterium (Alter do Chão) and the Roman presence in this region. Geometric pavements in varying states of preservation were uncovered in several rooms. These are essentially polychrome mosaics, some displaying evidence of Baroque overdoing, consisting of white, ochre, yellow, pink, red, green, blue and grey tesserae, made from limestone, sandstone, marble and eventually from pottery.

Keywords

• abelterium
• villae
• medusa
• mosaics
• geometric