The ancient empire responsible for significant maritime trade routes across the Mediterranean was the Roman Empire. At its height, the Roman Empire established a vast network of trade routes that facilitated commerce, cultural exchange, and the movement of goods and people throughout the Mediterranean Basin and beyond. This empire utilized advanced shipbuilding techniques and navigational prowess, which allowed them to control trade routes effectively. Roman trade not only boosted the economy but also contributed to the spread of ideas, technologies, and cultural practices, solidifying Rome’s influence and legacy in world history.