Integrated geophysical surveys for the knowledge of the amphitheatre in Rudiae (Lecce, Italy)

The ancient city of Rudiae is one of the largest Messapian settlements of Salento. It was inhabited from the 8th cent. BC until at least the 6th- 5th cent. AD, with a very important phase between the late 6th to the 3rd cent. BC. At the beginning of 2nd cent. AD dates back the amphitheatre, recently excavated. Here different methods of geophysical prospecting (GPR, Magnetometry, ERT) are performed. The anomalies highlighted by the integrated geophysical approach have been verified and confirmed by subsequent archaeological excavations. In particular, the anomalies are ascribed to archaeological remains regarding the north-western aditus, the floor of the arena, and some streets and structures to the north and east of the building.