Arikamedu
Explanation
During the Early Historic period, maritime trade between the Roman Empire and the Indian subcontinent was extensive. Greco-Roman geographers and navigators, such as Ptolemy and the anonymous author of the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea, documented various Indian ports using specific Hellenized names.
Analysis of Options:
- Muziris: This refers to the ancient port located on the Malabar Coast (modern-day Kerala) in the Chera Kingdom. It was a major centre for the spice trade but is distinct from Poduca.
- Arikamedu: Located near present-day Puducherry on the Coromandel Coast, this site is identified as the port of Poduca (or Poduke) mentioned in the Periplus and by Ptolemy. Extensive archaeological excavations, notably by Sir Mortimer Wheeler, revealed Roman amphorae, Arretine ware, and glass beads, confirming its role as a significant Indo-Roman trading station (emporium).
- Puhar: Also known as Kaveripattinam, this was the principal port of the Early Cholas. Ptolemy referred to the region and the river mouth as Khaberis.
- Sopara: Located on the western coast in Maharashtra, this ancient port was known as Suppara or Souppara in Greek texts.
Key Takeaway:
Poduca is the Roman name for the archaeological site of Arikamedu, which serves as key evidence of ancient commercial interaction between Rome and the Tamil country.