Closer to the goal

Sunday 8 July 2012

Artifacts excavated from CA and CB trenches

It's been another busy week at Poggio Civitate!

It’s become clear that our two exploratory trenches are producing a great deal of artifacts related to metalworking.  We are continuing to unearth a large quantity of slag, metals, including small fragments of iron and bronze, as well as crucible fragments and vitrified terracotta. Because of this, the two exploratory trenches were expanded, and several new trenches were opened. These trenches were opened in the hope of finding the eastern and western extent of the feature. All of the opened trenches are now adjoining using the horizontal excavation method.

Theresa Huntsman, Research and Catalogue Extraordinaire

Theresa, our catalog director, is working hard to keep up with the inflow of new artifacts. As soon as an artifact is conserved, our excavation director, Dr. Tuck, decides whether the artifact will be cataloged or repatriated. If Dr. Tuck chooses to catalog the artifact, it is immediately handed over to Theresa, who assigns the object a number, and adheres the number to the artifact in a discrete location using non-abrasive ink.  Teresa’s work is crucial to the excavation, as she is the organizational backbone and thus facilitates all effective research of Poggio Civitate.

Last weekend was the Medieval Festival in Murlo! It was an exciting mix of flame-throwers, archery, medieval costumes, food, and music. Everyone was able to get a taste of what life would have been like in medieval Murlo.

Archery at the Medieval Festival

Those of us who stuck around Vescovado to see the Medieval Festival had an entire weekend to explore the area. Tuscany is made up of beautiful rolling hills, some larger than others, which makes it an ideal location for hiking. There are several trails close to the excavation that take you through the forest to beautiful outlooks, adjoining cities, an old mining town, and many other interesting places. Many of us took to the trails to see the sights and afterwards jumped in the pool to soak up the sun and rest up for the upcoming week!

Definitions:

Crucible: A container that can withstand very high temperatures and is used in the production of metal and glass. The crucible fragments found here are typically pieces of terra-cotta with adhered metal slag.

Horizontal excavation method: Many adjoining trenches are opened and excavated at the same elevation to uncover large sections of a site. This method allows for a broader understanding of a site's layout and function

Repatriation: Returning uncovered artifacts to their original location

Signor Rubegni overlooking the countryside from the hotel pool