The archaeological investigation of the castle of Donoratico, began in 2000 and has reached its ninth campaign. A settlement of great size (circa one hectare) and complexity has been uncovered, with continuous occupation between the early and late medieval period. However, the settlement’s origins date back to earlier periods between the Hellenistic era and late antiquity. The project is part of a wide ranging study being undertaken by Siena University’s Department of Archaeology, which through stratigraphic excavation and analysis of walled remains, is examining the vast territory of the lower Val di Cecina and the metalliferous territories of the Val di Cornia.

The first years of excavation brought to light the castle’s layout in the late medieval period, when the fortified castle was linked to the important Della Gherardesca family, holders of numerous castles in the coastal hinterland for the control of the territory and exploitation of its resources. The layout was characterised by a summit area with buildings housing the aristocratic residence, below was the borgo arranged concentrically along the terraces and defended by a stone curtain wall. During the last three years of excavation, in particular the last campaign in 2008, interesting data emerged regarding the castle’s early medieval phases. In fact, the excavated stratigraphy attested the presence of a settlement of extraordinary importance that was unique in the regional panorama, probably linked to the early medieval monastery of S. Pietro in Palazzuolo situated close to Monteverdi Marittimo (PI). The most significant evidence dated to the 9th century when the settlement underwent numerous alterations which changed its appearance. In fact, the construction of a stone curtain wall, of an internal dividing wall within the settlement, of a single apsed church situated on the upper plateau and of a settlement built in perishable materials, attested by numerous post holes found on the summit area and in the south-western sector, all date to this century.