Archaeological excavations resume at Le Cesine Nature Reserve

Archaeological excavations are resuming at the San Giovanni site within the Le Cesine State Nature Reserve in Vernole, Italy. The 2026 campaign, led by the University of Salento’s Department of Cultural Heritage under the scientific direction of Rita Auriemma, will run from September 7 to October 4.

This year’s efforts feature the introduction of the Acaya LandLivingLab, located at the Acaya Castle. This laboratory will serve as a center for storing, cataloging, and restoring finds, while also acting as a hub for community engagement, including guided tours, educational initiatives, and public archaeology events.

Scientific focus will remain on underwater investigations of a large submerged port complex located in front of the Idrovoro building. Researchers aim to study an L-shaped pier and platform structure to confirm if the site dates back to the Augustan age (late 1st century BC to 1st century AD) and to investigate its historical significance.