Fano: Excavations begin at the Basilica of Vitruvius — lime trees

Excavations at the Basilica of Vitruvius in Fano: an overview

On 20 April 2026 archaeological excavations commenced in Piazza Costa, where remains connected to the Basilica mentioned by Vitruvius have been identified. The project, carried out by Adarte and overseen by Soprintendenza Marche Nord, shifts the work from accidental finds to planned, systematic archaeological research.

Preparatory steps for the excavation included the removal of lime trees in the square, a technical decision aimed at freeing the area for detailed stratigraphic study and safe access to the subsurface layers.

• Start date: 20 April 2026
• Location: Piazza Costa, Fano
• Lead organisations: Adarte and Soprintendenza Marche Nord
• Initial measures: removal of trees to enable the excavation area

For the archaeological team, the opening of the site marks the beginning of a phase of systematic investigation: the work is no longer limited to chance discoveries but is a coordinated excavation campaign aimed at reconstructing the stratigraphy and history of the ancient settlement beneath the square.

The tree removal has sparked public debate regarding the intervention methods and the symbolic value of the trees. From a scientific perspective, attention is focused on the chance to document stratigraphic sequences and finds that could clarify the presence and character of the basilica referred to in Vitruvian descriptions.

Over the coming months, the excavation will continue with detailed surveys, stratigraphic digging and thorough documentation — a project with potential to provide important new insights into the urban and archaeological history of Fano and the Marche region.