In 2017, the Department of Humanities at the University of Calabria began new archaeological investigations at the settlement of Timpone della Motta in Francavilla Marittima (CS). The primary objective of this research is to carry out a detailed analysis of the settlement’s organization, including the dynamics of interaction between the indigenous populations and Greek colonizers, both before and after the foundation of the Achaean colony of Sybaris. These investigations also aim to study the construction techniques, material culture, and various productions on the site.
The archaeological research has been divided into several investigative phases, including geophysical surveys, aerial photogrammetry using drones, surface reconnaissance, and stratigraphic excavation. This multidisciplinary approach has provided a more comprehensive view of the site’s history. The excavations have documented a continued occupation of Timpone della Motta, ranging from the Bronze Age to the Classical period, with a significant increase in findings dating between the Iron Age and the Archaic period.
The excavation campaigns conducted in September and October 2022 focused on extending some previously investigated areas, specifically trench 15 in area A and trench 7 in area C. During these excavations, many traces of structures, both wooden and masonry, were uncovered. Evidence for the wooden structures includes rock-cut post holes and channels, while for the masonry structures, alignments of pebbles, portions of conglomerate, and fragments of large ceramic containers, mixed with soil with a clay matrix, were found. The laboratory studies of the stratigraphy and associated materials will be crucial to clarify the floor plans, construction techniques, functions, and dating of the discovered buildings.

Paolo Brocato, Luciano Altomare, Margherita Perri