This paper focuses on the connection between Tarraco’s urban and economic growth during the 5th century AD and the recovery of its geostrategic role as the base for the late Roman army which aimed to regain control over Hispania. Tarraconensis was the last province of Hispania under imperial control a7er the arrival of the Germanic peoples and the agreed occupation of the most of the Iberian Peninsula. 6e written sources also refer to the presence of many high o8cials in the town, both civil and military. 6is event certaintly marked the historical evolu-tion of the city. 6e archaeological work of the past decades has indeed emphasized the recovery and development from the 5th century onwards of the main entry gate and economic hub of Tarraco, its harbour and the adjacent area known as the ‘port suburb’, contrasting with the urban and economic recession which characterized the preceding centuries.