Camerino: Monte Primo excavations reveal highland settlements

On Saturday, 16 May 2026 at 11:00, the Municipality of Camerino will host a public presentation of the latest archaeological investigations conducted on the summit of Monte Primo. The event will showcase discoveries that broaden understanding of high-altitude occupation in the Marche Apennines and outline plans for site protection and enhancement.

Key findings

Investigations launched in 2025 and coordinated by the regional Superintendency (ABAP) used a multidisciplinary approach and advanced digital tools. Excavation and survey results include:

• Occupation since the Late Bronze Age, with evidence of continued use;
• Terracing systems and rock-cut structures;
• Material remains: coarse pottery, lithic industry and faunal remains;
• Signs of a connected network of highland settlements across the territory.

Methods

To preserve the landscape and gather detailed data, the project employed:

• drones and LIDAR surveys for topographic mapping;
• thermal imaging and non-invasive prospections to detect anthropic anomalies;
• targeted stratigraphic excavations for contextualising finds.

Partners

The initiative is the result of cooperation between the Municipality of Camerino, the ABAP Superintendency, the Geology Department of the University of Camerino and Kora S.r.l. Project leaders and local officials will present results and next steps for safeguarding and valorisation.

Significance

The Monte Primo discoveries enhance knowledge of mountain settlements in the central Apennines and create opportunities for sustainable cultural and tourism development that respect the landscape while promoting interdisciplinary research.

Attendance details: the public presentation will take place in Camerino on 16 May 2026 at 11:00 at the town hall. For more information contact the Municipality or the partner institutions.