Geophysical surveys in archaeological sites in Baucina (Palermo)

The archaeological site of Monte Carrozza and Monte Falcone dominates in the south and east of the modern town of Baucina. These are two reliefs of modest size, separated by a small hill elongated in an East-West direction where the cliffs stand the necropolis. On these hills, probably in the sixth century. BC, settled people sicane that at the end of the century came into contact with the Greek colonies of Himera and the Punic Soluntum, as the research conducted in the last decade have demonstrated. Located in the hinterland, on the watershed between the river San Leonardo and Milicia, the sites are located in a key point, in an area open to the connections between Palermo, Solunto and Himera. Archaeological excavations are conducted by the Chair of Ancient Topography of the University of Palermo, in agreement and cooperation with the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage of Palermo, and with the logistical and financial support of the City of Baucina. Investigations affecting a sector of the necropolis located along the southern slope of Monte Falcone, as action to combat the phenomenon of illegal excavations. For this purpose were undertaken a series of geophysical surveys. The survey results showed the presence of various structures likely archaeological interest. Subsequent excavations made in areas investigated by geophysics have unearthed different types of funerary structures: burials in graves or nasturtium, cremation within pithoi or amphorae. The dead were accompanied by grave goods of the Greek tradition: skyphoi, achromatic cups, etc. Particular interest is a large tomb in an artificial cave entrance that consists of pillars and lintel plaster. The grave diggers violated by poachers is unique for their monumental architecture. It was reached by a corridor carved in the rock, in whose landfilling, as well as numerous ceramic fragments were recovered a bronze coin.