PHOENICIANS IN EUROPE:

Europe's oldest city' is found
By Elizabeth Nash in Madrid
Published: 09 October 2007 (The Independent)

Archaeologists in Spain's southern port of Cadiz believe they have found remains which prove that it is Europe's oldest inhabited city – Phoenician Gadir, or Gades in Roman times.

Remnants of walls have emerged seven metres deep in a dig beneath Cadiz's old town centre which have been dated to the 8th century BC. Scientists found shards of Phoenician pottery, and pieces of jars, bowls and plates once used in everyday life which all point towards the existence of a town. A well-preserved bronze brooch has also appeared, suggesting a high level of civilisation. Previous finds, including funeral relics, did not provide conclusive evidence of urban settlement.

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By the way, my home Internet access has finally been restored. The problem turned out to be a faulty telephone socket.