The site of Incoronata is located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, near Metaponto. It has been the subject of archaeological excavations since the 1970’s, with extensive research conducted by the University of Milan in the 1990’s. In 2002 excavations on the site resumed, headed by Professor Mario Denti, University of Rennes. The new research project is aimed at further investigating the statigraphy of the site and re-examining the archive held in Metaponto museum. In 2009 I became involved in the project when I was invited to visit and examine the faunal remains from the recent excavations.
The site offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the cultural changes that occurred in the 8th to 7th centuries BC in this region of Italy. In this time period Greek colonies were being established in the area. The site of Incoronata contains evidence for both native and Greek occupation. This allows us to investigate aspects of social change and interaction using both the ceramic and faunal remains from the site.
The excavations consist of a number of different areas on the hilltop. Currently, the faunal remains from sector 4 have been recorded and are being written up for publication. For further information on the site please see the below links.
University of Rennes Incoronata website
Incoronata excavations blog

Discussing current excavations in sector 1 (photo by J. Morris)
