Biodeterioration of polychrome Roman mosaics

The mosaics from the Roman remains of Italica, which was founded in 206 BC near present-day Seville, are threatened by the ravages of nature that are destroying these masterpieces from the second century AD. Since the beginning of this century, the exposure of most of the mosaics after excavation has resulted in colonization by pioneering species of lichens and mosses, as well as by subsequent allied plants. The ultimate effect is the complete destruction of the mosaics, with some unfortunate examples being recorded.This work has been supported bv the CEC through contract STEP-CT90- 0107.Peer Reviewe