MATTER AND MEMORY: The Villa of Costigliole Saluzzo: Materials and Construction Techniques in the Roman Age. Experimental Archaeology Experiences – Conference
Matter and Memory: in Costigliole Saluzzo, a Piedmontese "Pompeii" resurfaces. Discover the secrets of a great Roman villa through previously unseen artifacts and experimental archaeology. A unique journey to experience firsthand the ingenuity and daily life of the ancient builders.
In the heart of Roman Piedmont, one of the largest rustic villas in the western Cisalpine region (3 hectares) once again reveals its secrets. Active since 2003, the University of Turin's archaeological mission has uncovered an extraordinary monumental complex, featuring the first known winemaking facility in the area and elegant residential quarters. A violent fire in the 3rd century AD led to its sudden abandonment, but just as in Pompeii, the collapses sealed the final moments of the inhabitants' lives under layers of burnt ash and normally perishable organic materials, such as beams and wooden carpentry.
The exceptional state of preservation of the remains has given rise to an ambitious, one-of-a-kind interdisciplinary project that aims to reconstruct the Roman masonry and architectural elements using the same resources and techniques as two thousand years ago. During the meeting, participants will have the exclusive opportunity to "touch" samples and materials, delving into the heart of the research.
This high-profile cultural event is a collaboration between the FAI Delegations of Cuneo and Saluzzo and the University of Turin – Department of Historical Studies (a Department of Excellence recognized by the Ministry of Education, Universities and Research), with the support of the Kairos Center for Archaeological Studies.
The meeting will be introduced by Roberto Audisio, Communications Manager for FAI Piedmont and Valle d'Aosta, and Maurizio Sola, Head of the FAI Delegation of Saluzzo.
The scientific presentation will be provided by the protagonists of the archaeological mission: Professors Diego Elia and Valeria Meirano (UniTO, Department of Historical Studies) and Drs. Veronica Bellacicco and Simone Guion.
The project also benefits from the specialist contributions of the Departments of Physics and Chemistry at the University of Turin.
In collaboration with: Department of Historical Studies of the University of Turin and Kairos Center for Archaeological Studies
Under the patronage of: Municipality of Cuneo and Superintendency of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape for the provinces of Alessandria, Asti and Cuneo
With the contribution of: CRC Foundation.
Free admission until seats are filled
