Rofalco – The Etruscan fortress conquered by the Romans

Location: Farnese, VT, IT

Season: August 4, 2019 to August 18, 2019

Deadline Type: Contact for details

Website: https://www.gruppoarcheologico.it/gar/farnese-rofalco/

Program Type:
Field school, Volunteer

RPA Certified:
no

Affiliation:
Roman Archaeological Association (GAR) in collaboration with: The Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities (MiBAC) University of Naples "L'Orientale"

Project Director:
Prof. Orlando Cerasuolo

Project Description:

Rofalco is located within the dense and charming forest of the Natural Park “Selva del Lamone”, near the medieval towns of Pitigliano and Farnese, in Italy, between Tuscany and Lazio. Rofalco was an Etruscan fortress in the northern part of Vulci’s district; it was destroyed by the Romans around 280 B.C.E. Since 1996, the excavation revealed a massive defensive wall with squared towers and an impressive paved gate dominated by a massive lookout bastion.

Inside the fortress archaeologists discovered roads, open areas and several well preserved buildings: houses, barracks, warehouses, and water cisterns. The site was a strategic hub with a military function but also a collection center for the agricultural products of the area. The numerous pottery, tools, and inscriptions found so far clearly show the site’s importance as well as the aristocratic nature of its rulers.

Rofalco is the first example of fortified site to be systematically excavated in the area, and is a perfect opportunity to study the transition between the Etruscan and Roman worlds. Artefacts from the site make up the core of the Etruscan section of the Museum of Farnese.

This year we will investigate several wooded areas within the defensive wall. The primary goal is the further analysis of the building containing a large cistern of four meters in diameter. We will complete the excavation of a building close to the Main Gate. Finally we will investigate some rooms in the residential area and in the storage area.

Each participant will gain practical skills and hands-on experience while participating in real research activities. The core of the School is the site excavation and documentation; in addition, during the two weeks, international students and volunteers will take part in different laboratory activities on Etruscan pottery analysis and restoration techniques. Further activities consist of designing and executing the visiting tour panels, digital documentation and the use of new technologies. During the Summer Field School, seminars and visits to local archaeological sites and museums will be organized.

Following past tradition, at the end of the program there will be a public conference to illustrate the results of the season, as well ad free guided tours to tourists and visitors.

In order to promote our activities, during the two weeks we will go to several festivals and events in Lazio and Tuscany.  On Saturday or Sunday, there will be a tour to one of the major archaeological sites or museums and a half-day to relax at the lake or beach. The last night of the program there will be a barbeque feast.

All the activities are carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities (MiBAC), the Natural Park and the local administrations.  

Program activities are subject to change.

Please read the brochure for more details and the application form.

Period(s) of Occupation: Etruscan civilization, pre Roman (4th to 3rd century B.C.E.)

Notes:
Rofalco was an Etruscan fortress in the northern part of Vulci's district; it was destroyed by the Romans around 280 B.C.E. The excavation revealed a massive defensive wall with squared towers an an impressive main gate. Inside the fort we discovered several warehouses, two water tanks, houses, and a lot of pottery and tools. Excavations has been running since 1996, with participants from all over the world. To apply please fill and send the form at the end of the brochure.

Project Size: 25-49 participants

Minimum Length of Stay for Volunteers: One week

Minimum Age: 18

Experience Required: No previous experience is required, but we appreciate those who have excavated in the past.

Room and Board Arrangements:
Accommodations consist of dormitory rooms with 6-8 beds, shared toilets and showers. Participants will have use of a small refrigerator.  There are facilities for hand washing clothes at the school.  Breakfast and dinner are prepared at the dig house and lunch is brought up to the site.  Cost: The cost for two weeks is 365 euros, for one week is 250 euros. On top of this you will pay the Association annual membership fee (24 euros for under 30, and 37 euros for everyone else) which covers insurance during the dig. Accomodation, subsistance and transport during the program are included in the fee.

Academic Credit:
We provide a certificate of participation valid for credits. credits offered by Roman Archaeological Association (GAR). Tuition is The cost for two weeks is 365 euros, for one week is 250 euros. On top of this you will pay the Association annual membership fee (24 euros for under 30, and 37 euros for everyone else) which covers insurance during the dig. Accomodation, subsistance and transport during the program are included in the fee..