Abstract
Restitutions of ancient machines, such as those of grape or olive presses, are often only simple evocations basedon the shape and spatial organization of the remains. However, the calculation of forces allows us to considertheir power, and a study of the strength of materials offers a new look at the techniques of antiquity.Through the model of the press of Cato the Elder, this article provides the archaeologist with affordableformulas allowing him to approach these problems of Mechanics. It is then possible to propose restitutionsvalidated by calculation, but also to identify the wearing pieces of these machines. Thus, the engineering skills ofthe ancient designers and the technicality of the operators of these presses are highlighted.