·      Training in stratigraphic recording methods. Subjects covered include, analysis of built structures and surviving archaeological features, as well as vertical context analysis.

·      Training in photogrammetry through the on-site use of cameras and total station, in order to obtain detailed reproductions of the vertical stratigraphy and its construction sequence.

·      Introduction GIS management of the collected data.

·      Reconstruction of the recorded buildings during their different phases within the Roman period.

Students will gain in-depth knowledge of archaeological methods and approaches, a firm introduction to the interdisciplinary aspect of the field, and a good appreciation of archaeological research methods.

·      Students will gain familiarity with the terminology and methodologies of archaeological recording of walls and building techniques, as well as with methods of data illustration.

·      They will develop a critical appreciation of the approach and scope of archaeological interpretation, and an understanding of the inherent interdisciplinary approach of this.

·      They will attain a contextual understanding of the urban planning through the different phases of occupation of the colony of Rusellae and the relationships among the different buildings.

·      They will acquire an awareness of developmental histories of other sites in the area through the possibilities of visits to archaeological sites and museums.

All scheduled classes and work days are mandatory.

You must always be punctual; late arrival will be noted and may affect your final grade.

Please dress appropriately to weather and work conditions, as well as to the health and safety regulations provided.

Make-up work is not offered, except in exceptional circumstances and after consultation with the Dean of Academic Affairs.

No video or audio recording of the class is permitted.

Thematic approach
Each week of the course is characterized by a thematic emphasis that will provide a firm understanding of the composite disciplines that archaeological research draw on.

Content
The specific content of each week will necessarily be dictated by the archaeological needs of the project and the characteristics of the site. Hence, the project directors and site supervisors will instruct you in the particular work needed.

Lectures
Lectures by specialists may be conducted as presentations or as practical learning experience. Lectures will be held during the normal working day. The format of lectures will be tailored to fit the nature and characteristics of the season’s results. Hence, timing will be communicated in due course.


Week 1    Introduction to archaeological methods
Introduction to the site and its excavation history.
    Considerations of location and of surrounding landscape and environmental features.
    Introduction to practical archaeological excavation.

Training in basic stratigraphic methods. Instruction in how to identify and distinguish diverse building techniques.
    Handling of recording tools (camera, drawing board, total station).
    Preliminary context recording (written record, sketch, photograph).

Visit to the Archaeological Museum at Grosseto.
    Examination of finds from the excavations of the Alberese Archaeological Project as well as from the Etrusco-Roman city of Rusellae.
    Consideration of the museological and display approaches at a modern, regional museum.


Week 2    Stratigraphic analysis I
Development of skills of elevation recording and identification of different building techniques.
    Advancement of understanding of vertical stratigraphy.
    Training in archaeological recording: written vertical context sheet, drawn elevations, photographs.


Week 3    Digital reconstruction and GIS Management
Developed of skills of elevation recording and identification of different building techniques.
    Training in digital reconstruction drawings of elevations.
    Setting up of the GIS platform to manage the collected data.
    Confidence in archaeological recording: written vertical context sheet, drawn elevation, photograph.

Possible Saturday visit: archaeological site at Cosa
    Investigation of the Roman colonial city of Cosa and its public monuments.
     Examination of historical context and shared building techniques.
    Consideration of the presentation of the archaeological park and the museological approach in a site-specific ‘antiquarium’ museum.


Week 4   A new vision of the city
Advancement of skills of recording process and methodology.
    Advanced understanding of stratigraphy, and ability for archaeological recording: written vertical context sheet, drawn elevation, photograph.
    Considerations of phases of site development, and its relationship with the surrounding monument areas of the city of Rusellae.
    Preliminary re-assessment of the building techniques within the wider context of the city.

Possible Saturday visit: the medieval cities of Pitigliano and Sorano.
    Investigation of late antique and medieval settlement patterns.
    Considerations of changes in communication networks across all the Roman sites visited.