Origin and development of inequality and social stratification. The Villafranca de los Barros tegula is one of the most unique epigraphic testimonies of late Roman times. It is the only known example of an epistle written in Latin that was reproduced in the clay, still fresh, of a roof tile. The text informs us about the organisation of the agricultural holdings of the Late Roman Empire, the so-called Roman villas, as well as the living conditions of those who managed and ran them.

The structure of an urban dwelling reflects the diversity of activities, as well as social and economic differences: the amenities of the house express the social status of its owner. The most characteristic house models are two: the domus or single-family mansion and the insula or block of neighbours.

From the 4th century AD, the great landowner, the dominus, abandoned the urban centres and settled in the countryside. At the same time, many citizens moved to the villages in search of work and a system of colonato was created.