Carvalho, FernandaLima, Maria Margarida Rolim AugustoSilva, TeresaVeiga, João Pedro2025-12-222025-12-222025-12Carvalho, F., Lima, M.M.R.A., Silva, T.P., & Veiga, J.P. (2025). The materials of historical monuments: characterisation of the mortars of the Roman aqueduct of Zaghouan-Carthage. In: npj Heritage Science, 2025, vol. 13 (1), article 640. https://doi.org/10.1038/s40494-025-02144-5http://hdl.handle.net/10400.9/6185ABSTRACT: The Zaghouan-Carthage Roman aqueduct was the largest built by the Roman Empire at the time, and its archaeological remains bear witness to the excellence of Roman construction. Its importance over the centuries makes it a unique case study for characterising the different types of mortar used. This work aims to study these materials, considering their functions, especially as structural elements or as render, to relate the chemical and mineralogical characteristics observed to both the function and historical context of the monument. Using a multi-analytical approach, the preservation of samples was prioritised whenever possible. The results indicate that mortars with a structural function have higher silicon contents than those used as render. In the case of water conduit coatings, the mortars were formulated with ground ceramics to develop hydraulic properties and ensure the waterproofing material. However, it was not possible to identify a characteristic pattern related to the historical construction periods.engHistorical mortarsCultural heritageMaterialsCharacterizationRoman aqueductZaghouan-Carthagejournal article10.1038/s40494-025-02144-53059-3220