The Exploitation of the marine environment by the ancient population of Caesarea through mosaics

Sayah, Lycia; Bennoui, Baya

مجلة الانسان والمجال
Volume 12, Numéro 1, Pages 223-243
2026-06-15

The Exploitation Of The Marine Environment By The Ancient Population Of Caesarea Through Mosaics

Authors : Sayah Lycia . Bennoui Baya .

Abstract

This article aims to study the exploitation of marine resources in ancient Caesarea through the analysis of mosaic representations reflecting the relationship between humans and the sea. The research seeks to highlight the diversity of marine species depicted in mosaics and their symbolic and cultural significance, demonstrating the inhabitants’ awareness of the sea’s essential role in their lives. It also aims to identify the fishing techniques employed by the ancient population, based on visual scenes illustrating methods similar to those attested in other regions of ancient Algeria. Finally, the article examines the processing, preservation, and distribution of marine products, in order to understand the economic system built around the exploitation of these resources, emphasizing their vital role in the city’s social and economic life.