Marilena COZZOLINO / Federica FASANO
(Department of Science and Technology for Environment and Territory, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy)
Keywords: Latin colony of Aesernia, archaeological survey, 3D photogrammetric reconstructions, non invasive geophysical prospections
Abstract:
In this paper we present the results of integrated researches related to urban geo-archaeology realized through a combined use of historical sources, archaeological survey, 3D photogrammetric laser scanner and non invasive geophysical methods such as ground high resolution penetrating radar and geoelectrical tomography. The analysis of the Latin Colony of Aesernia is proposed.
The city, founded in 263 BC, was developed on a river terrace bordered by steep escarpments and was surrounded by walls built using the technique of polygonal opus, opus quadratum, opus reticulatum and opus incertum. The temple of the Latin colony of Aesernia, was built in the place considered by the colonists the most dominant within the walls of the city and it was localized at the junction of the particular road system of the city consisting of a cardo major, with orientation north-south, and different parallel decumani with east-west orientation. Even the Latin colony of Aesernia possessed same thermal baths, both public and private, located about 800m to the south by the southern-east boundary of the city wall. However the position of the forum and the theater of the city is uncertain.
Geophysical surveys and 3D photogrammetric reconstructions carried out within and outside the city walls have provided interesting data filling many gaps in the knowledge of the colony. The integration of multiple systems of sources for the realization of a global study was very useful for the comprehension of the planning of archaeological research and the sustainable management of the cultural heritage.