Lisbon under Romans prospered and flourished as a metropolis both economically and culturally. The Romans defeated Hannibal in the Punic wars. They proceeded to conquer Spain and Portugal, which were then the most prized possession of the Carthage, an ancient city state in North Africa founded by the Phoenicians. The Carthigians were at last defeated by the Scipio Africanus in Eastern Hisapania. Consul Decimus Junius Brutus, who led the pacification of the West, was able to secure the alliance of Olissipo.
Lisbon History - Establishment of the Roman Empire
The legendary Greek hero Odysseus on his journey to Troy discovered Lisbon and named it Olissipo. The city was integrated to the Roman empire and was named 'Felicitas Julia, a Municipium, Cives Romanorum. The citizens of this Roman municipality enjoyed all the privileges of Roman citizenship and were exempted from all sorts of taxes. Lisbon, under the Roman empire was annexed to Lusitania province, whose capital was Emerita Augusta.
Lisbon, under the Romans underwent a wave of changes, which were greatly reflected in the
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architecture of those times. The great theater was built and the amazing Cassian baths were constructed. Different temples dedicated to Roman Gods like Jupiter, Diana Vybele Tethys dominated the cityscape. Insulae (multi storied apartments) and a large forum were also built.
During this period Olissipo or Lisbon flourished economically. Olissipo exported 'Garum', a special fish sauce, which was liked by the elites of the empire. Garum was taken to many cities and also exported to Amphorae in Rome. Lisbon under Roman rule also exported thoroughbred horses wine and salt, which were famous in the whole world. This was also known as the 'Age of Discovery'. Technological advances provided an impetus to the local economy. Higher civilizations developed in the provinces of Britannia.
Religion of Lisbon under the Romans were basically, followed the lines of Polytheist cults. Medicina, Asclepius, Cybele, and a local lizard were worshiped. Christianity flourished during this period, and the first Bishop was Saint Gens.
The city fell into the hands of the Moors, thus bringing an end to the glorious rule of the Romans.
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