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Archaeologists have recently made an intriguing discovery by analyzing images from a declassified satellite spying program of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). These high-resolution images, taken by the U.S. CORONA (1960 to 1972) and HEXAGON (1971 to 1986) spy satellites, have provided new insights into the ancient Roman Empire.

Previously, it was believed that Roman forts in modern-day Syria and Iraq served a defensive purpose. However, the analysis of these satellite images challenges that assumption and suggests that the forts were actually intended for the safe passage of goods and people. The newly discovered imagery reveals that the forts were scattered throughout the region, rather than following a north-south defensive pattern.

Researchers from Dartmouth College, Jesse Casana, David Goodman, and Carolin Ferwerda, conducted the study. They suggest that these forts may have been protectors of trade caravans, facilitating communication and intercultural exchange in the strategically significant region known as the Fertile Crescent.

The analysis also uncovered that many of the forts had been occupied for hundreds of years, dating between the 2nd and 6th century. The researchers note that while numerous forts were abandoned by the 6th century AD, some of the larger fortifications continued to be occupied into the medieval period.

The newly discovered forts vary in size, with some having sides as long as 200 meters. Many of these larger sites contain remains of outlying architectural features and multiple fortified buildings, or even large citadels.

Unfortunately, due to ongoing conflicts in the region, ground-based investigations of these sites have been challenging. Nevertheless, the researchers believe that further analysis of declassified satellite imagery, as well as other historical resources, holds significant potential for uncovering more discoveries in the Near East and beyond.

Archaeologists have increasingly relied on Cold War-era spy satellite imagery, such as the CORONA and HEXAGON programs, to aid in their research. The valuable information provided by these declassified images has proven invaluable in studying regions with limited vegetation, like the Middle East. As more material becomes available, it is hoped that a clearer picture of this fascinating period in history will emerge.

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