IIerans

The IIerans were an ancient Iberian people who inhabited the northeastern part of the Iberian Peninsula, primarily in what is now Catalonia and parts of Aragon and Valencia. Their territory was centered around the lower Ebro River and its tributaries.

The IIerans were known for their sophisticated culture and their interactions with other Mediterranean civilizations. They established a number of significant settlements, including their capital, Iltirta (modern-day Lérida), which was a major urban center. Archaeological evidence suggests they were skilled artisans, particularly in metalworking and pottery. They also developed their own script, an Iberian script that has been partially deciphered.

Contact with the Greeks and Phoenicians, who established trading posts along the coast, influenced IIeran society and economy. They engaged in trade, exchanging local resources for manufactured goods. The IIerans were also involved in the conflicts of the Punic Wars, often aligning themselves with either Rome or Carthage depending on the political circumstances and their own strategic interests.

Roman conquest of the Iberian Peninsula in the 2nd century BCE led to the gradual Romanization of the IIerans. Their culture, language, and political structures were eventually absorbed into the Roman Empire. While their distinct identity faded over time, their legacy can be seen in the archaeological remains and the historical accounts left by Roman writers.