Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
From the excavations of which ancient site, information has been gathered regarding brisk trade relations between India and Rome, during the early centuries of Christian era:
Solution & Analysis
Answer: D
Concept
Ancient India was a global economic hub, with its coastal ports facilitating a massive exchange of luxury goods, spices, and textiles with the Mediterranean world.Explanation
Arikamedu, located near Puducherry, was a major maritime port. Excavations by Mortimer Wheeler and others yielded Roman amphorae (jars for oil/wine), Arretine ware (stamped pottery), and Roman coins, proving active trade with the Roman Empire between the 1st century BCE and 2nd century CE.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: While Madurai and Tamralipti were important, Arikamedu is the specific site that provided the most definitive 'western' ceramic and artifact evidence.
Logic 2: The presence of a Mediterranean-style warehouse at Arikamedu underscores its role as a permanent trading emporium for Roman merchants.