DiscoVereto: a systematic excavation campaign begins at Vereto

DiscoVereto is underway: the inaugural large-scale archaeological excavation at the ancient Messapian settlement of Vereto in the municipality of Patù (LE). The campaign runs from 16 May to 19 June 2026 and aims to clarify settlement patterns at the Capo di Leuca from the Late Bronze Age through early Romanization.

Research objectives

• Carry out stratigraphic excavations in previously uninvestigated areas with a systematic approach.
• Reconstruct exchange networks and aspects of cultural identity among Mediterranean communities.
• Integrate archaeological data with topographic surveys and landscape analysis.

Methods and tools

• Stratigraphic excavation for direct analysis of habitation contexts.
• 3D topographic surveys and digital mapping to document structures and deposits.
• LIDAR remote sensing, GIS and non-invasive geophysical prospection.
• Comparative study of published and unpublished materials alongside documentary sources.

Public engagement and activities

The project includes several public initiatives to raise awareness and foster shared protection of the site:

• Educational workshops and participatory archaeology activities.
• Training courses and seminars for students and enthusiasts.
• Guided visits to excavation areas and interpretative activities at the Vereto Archaeological Museum (Palazzo "Liborio Romano" in Patù).
• Production of a documentary following the excavation phases.

Coordination and partners

Scientific direction is provided by Università degli Studi di Napoli "L'Orientale". Partners include the Municipality of Patù, the ABAP Superintendency for Brindisi, Lecce and Taranto, and the Apulia Region.

Practical information

Period: 16 May - 19 June 2026
Location: Borgo Vereto, 73053 Patù (LE) — Coordinates: 39.837968, 18.3276949.

Excavation areas are located on municipal and private lands made available to the project. Public events and the activity schedule are available from municipal offices and the project's official channels; please check times and attendance rules before taking part.

DiscoVereto is an occasion to explore a strategic historic landscape for Mediterranean routes and to support the preservation of local archaeological heritage.