An experimental archaeological project in recreating an ancient bronze naval ram

Abstract

Ancient bronze naval rams were a weapon used in Mediterranean naval warfare to destroy, swamp, or sink enemy vessels for nearly a millennium (c. 500 BCE–500 CE). This study utilized experimental archaeological methods to reconstruct a ram using shipbuilding and casting techniques reflective of those from Greek and Roman cultures. This project represents the first successful casting of a ram in over 1500 years, informed by textual, iconographic, and archaeological evidence. The findings challenge the prevailing assumption that rams were manufactured using sand-casting or indirect lost-wax casting techniques. Instead, this study supports the theory that rams were produced using the direct lost-wax casting method, employing standardized processes that were customized to accommodate the specific dimensions of each ship and the required ram size. Furthermore, this experimental project provides critical insights into the process, labor, time, and materials required for ram production, offering a deeper understanding of the socioeconomic dimensions of naval warfare in the ancient Mediterranean.