DiscoVereto: the first excavation campaign at Vereto begins

From 18 May to 19 June 2026 DiscoVereto starts, marking the inaugural systematic excavation campaign at the ancient Messapian town of Vereto, in the municipality of Patù (Lecce). The initiative is the initial phase of a multi-year project focused on pre-Roman archaeology of the Capo di Leuca area.

Campaign objectives

• Reconstruct exchange networks and cultural identities from the Late Bronze Age to early Romanization.
• Document the historical and landscape context of the Messapian settlement.
• Combine traditional fieldwork with digital methods for an integrated archaeological interpretation.

Methods and tools

• Traditional stratigraphic excavation with rigorous scientific recording.
• Study and cataloguing of both known and unpublished finds from the area.
• Topographic surveys and 3D mapping for precise site recording.
• LIDAR remote sensing and GIS analyses to investigate the landscape context.
• Non-invasive geophysical prospections carried out in collaboration with research institutions.

Community engagement and outreach

The project emphasizes participatory archaeology: planned activities include citizen science initiatives, public educational workshops, seminars, and talks at the Vereto Archaeological Museum. Findings will be communicated through outreach materials and a dedicated documentary.

Organization and funding

The campaign is led by the University of Naples "L'Orientale" with scientific direction by Prof. Valentino Nizzo, in partnership with the Municipality of Patù, local authorities, the Superintendency ABAP for Brindisi, Lecce and Taranto, and the Culture Department of the Apulia Region. The project is part of a broader program financed through PNRR and European funds aimed at cultural regeneration of historic villages.

Practical information

• When: 18 May 2026 – 19 June 2026
• Where: Vereto, municipality of Patù (Capo di Leuca), province of Lecce
• Participation: public activities, workshops and seminars; check local notices for schedules, registration details and volunteer requirements.
• Location (coordinates): Borgo Vereto, 73053 Patù (LE) – 39.8429961, 18.3371598

DiscoVereto offers a direct opportunity to explore Salento's archaeology, take part in heritage protection, and support the enhancement of an important historical site.