Students visit the Roman Villa of Casignana and the Archaeological Park of Locri

Educational visit to Casignana and Locri

Between January 27 and 28, first-year students from the Zaleuco–Oliveti–Panetta–Zanotti high school took part in a guided educational visit to the Roman Villa of Casignana and the National Archaeological Park of Locri. The outing aimed to bring students closer to the local archaeological heritage through direct observation and on-site lessons.

The Roman Villa of Casignana: key features

The imperial-age villa, developed from the 1st to the 4th century AD, is one of southern Italy's most important Roman complexes. Highlights include:

• Scale and layout: the site covers around 6,000 m², with seaside residential areas and an extensive thermal complex.
• Mosaics and floors: the villa hosts the largest known cluster of Roman mosaics in Calabria—black-and-white and polychrome mosaics, geometric and figurative panels, and opus sectile marble floors.
• Thermal architecture: sequential rooms such as frigidarium, tepidarium and calidarium, plus traces of praefurnia (sub-floor heating structures).

Locri Archaeological Park: what to see

Locri Epizefiri, founded between the 8th and 7th centuries BC, was a major city of Magna Graecia. During the visit students observed:

• Sanctuaries and monumental temples with important sculptural decoration;
• The Persephoneion, a prominent sanctuary known for rich votive deposits including the famous pinakes (terracotta votive plaques);
• Urban remains and sacred areas that shed light on the religious, political and social life of the polis.

Educational value and practical tips for visitors

The visit gave students firsthand contact with historical artefacts and structures, enhancing awareness of their cultural roots. Practical advice for visitors:

• Check opening times and availability of guided tours in advance;
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sun protection in warm months;
• Visit the on-site museum (Marasà) to contextualize outdoor finds;
• Use guided or educational routes for deeper understanding of mosaics and thermal systems.

Activities like this support the education of young people about the value of Calabria's archaeological heritage and promote its protection for future generations.