Castellabate: renewed investigations at coastal archaeological sites

Castellabate: renewed investigations at coastal archaeological sites

Fieldwork will soon begin to document and promote the submerged and coastal archaeological heritage of the Municipality of Castellabate (SA). The initiative is part of the PAS project (Archaeological Submerged Landscapes of Campania), aimed at conserving and making marine cultural assets accessible through advanced technologies and integrated research methods.

Project partners

• Soprintendenza ABAP of Salerno and Avellino
• Databenc district
• University of Salerno
• Parthenope University of Naples
• Project lead: Mare Group (within the Innovation Agreements)
• Operational support: Carabinieri Underwater Unit of Naples and Carabinieri Unit of the Castellabate Park

Project goals

• Surveying and documenting submerged sites using advanced technologies
• Chronological and functional analysis of recovered materials
• Development of protection and sustainable use strategies
• Engagement of local communities for cultural and tourism development

Sites under study

• Roman Harbour of Castellabate: constructions attributable to the 1st century BC, including two jetties—one fully submerged and one partly emergent.
• Punta Licosa: island and promontory linked to the myth of the siren Leucosia; finds include a Roman villa with fish-farming installations.
• Campo dei Rocchi: open-air quarry where traces of sandstone extraction are visible on the shore and below sea level; recent research suggests significant activity also in the early medieval period for millstone production.

Marine dynamics frequently alter the visibility of these remains: recent winter storms have uncovered portions of the extraction bench and related debris, creating new opportunities for study. Field operations will be coordinated with specialized Carabinieri units and university teams to conduct underwater surveys, dating and contextual analyses.

Funded by the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy and the Fund for Sustainable Growth, the project aims not only to record and conserve archaeological evidence, but also to develop smart services and digital tools to enhance public access and sustainable local development.

Visitor information: research and protection measures may temporarily restrict direct access to some areas during operations; official updates and findings will be published through the Soprintendenza and partner channels.