Introduzione

This volume collects the papers presented at a meeting organized in Cottanello on October 20, 2018, dedicated to the archaeological research carried out in the territory of Cottanello and in the neighbouring municipalities of Configni, Vacone and Montasola. Over the past few years, several interesting research projects have been conducted which provide new data that usefully deepen our knowledge about these territories. First of all, we will present the results of the research at the villa of Cottanello, including past and current work as well as what needs to be done to continue preserving the mosaics and structures. After a paper dedicated to the identification of a Roman aqueduct in Cottanello, the results of research conducted in the territory of Configni and other towns with be illustrated. Two papers will be dedicated to Vacone: particularly the archaeological excavations at the Roman villa and the study of the early medieval church of S. Stefano. A final essay will be dedicated to the systematic research conducted in the territory of Montasola. We will also present what has been done to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the discovery of the Cottanello Roman villa (September 1968) and, more generally, for the study, protection and enhancement of the villa in recent years - since the Sapienza University of Rome and the National Research Council of Italy have begun to study and safeguard this monument together with the local municipality.