Mineralogical petrographic and geochemical characterization of marmora from the Roman quarries of Cabra (Córdoba) and Antequera (Málaga), External Sector Areas of the Betic Chain, Spain

Abstract

Highlights • Analysis of the local marmora quarries in the Roman Baetica province will allow establishing the source area of stone ornaments used in the monumentalization of the Roman Baetica cities. • The study methodology proposed is based on the characterization of geological outcrops where these quarries are located and analysis of the remains of ancient extraction activity. • The creation of an analytical database on quarries and its subsequent comparative study on archaeological pieces constitutes an adequate methodology for the location of the source area of the ornamental stones used for the elaboration of archaeological remains. • The limestones from Córdoba and Malága, External areas of the Betic Chain, (Spain) are an example of the exploitation of local marmora used as architectural, epigraphic and sculptural since Roman times.