Archaeologists identify Second Punic War projectile origins

An interdisciplinary research team has identified the caliber and origin of lead used in sling projectiles (glandes) during the Second Punic War (218–206 BC) in the Upper Guadalquivir valley, Spain.

Researchers from the Universities of Jaén, Madrid, and the Basque Country analyzed metrology and isotopic signatures using mass spectrometry. The study focused on projectiles from three archaeological sites: Baecula, Iliturgi, and Puente Tablas. Findings reveal a standardized weight caliber between 30 and 40 grams, as well as specialized heavier projectiles used for attacking fortified Iberian settlements (oppida).

These heavier projectiles were reportedly used in coordination with torsion artillery to clear defenses during Roman attacks. By utilizing lead isotope analysis and the AMALIA analytical logic algorithm, the team reconstructed lead supply routes for Roman, Carthaginian, and Iberian forces, identifying sources from the Linares and Cartagena mining districts.