DiscoVereto: first systematic digs begin at Vereto

From 18 May to 19 June 2026, “DiscoVereto” begins the inaugural campaign of systematic excavations at the ancient Messapian settlement of Vereto, located in Patù (Lecce). The work is the initial phase of the wider “Leucantica” project focused on pre‑Roman archaeology in the Capo di Leuca area.

Project goals

The campaign aims to reconstruct exchange networks, cultural identities and inter-community relations from the Late Bronze Age through early Romanization. Fieldwork will combine stratigraphic excavation with digital techniques and public archaeology to restore the settlement’s historical and landscape context.

Techniques and tools

• Traditional stratigraphic excavation integrated with archival and antiquarian source analysis.
• Study and cataloguing of previously found and unpublished materials.
• Topographic surveys and 3D mapping.
• LIDAR remote sensing and GIS landscape analysis.
• Non‑invasive geophysical prospection in collaboration with INGV.

Community involvement and outreach

The initiative emphasizes participatory archaeology: citizen science projects, public workshops, and lectures at the Vereto Archaeological Museum will engage local residents. A documentary will document the campaign and share its results with a wider audience.

Organization and funding

The campaign is led by the University of Naples “L’Orientale” with Prof. Valentino Nizzo as scientific director, in partnership with the Municipality of Patù, neighboring municipalities, the regional Soprintendenza ABAP and the Puglia Culture department. It is part of the “Storie meridiane” cultural regeneration program funded by NextGenerationEU and the Italian Ministry of Culture (PNRR).

Practical information

• When: 18 May 2026 – 19 June 2026
• Where: Vereto archaeological area, Patù (Capo di Leuca, Lecce)
• Participation: public events, workshops and seminars; check local announcements for schedules and registration details.

This excavation campaign offers a rare opportunity to explore the archaeology of the Salento region and contribute to the preservation and promotion of a significant historical site.