Integrated Archaeological and Geophysical Surveys in the Historical Center of Augusta (Eastern Sicily, Italy).

Abstract

Augusta was founded by Emperor Frederick II between 1233/34 and 1238/39 on a peninsula. Despite its short history, over the centuries the town has undergone profound transformations due to demolitions (1680-1682) and earthquakes (1542, 1693) that have changed its architectural and urban features. Integrated archaeological and geophysical investigations were undertaken to solve specific archaeological problems which are part of a wider debate regarding the phenomena connected to the medieval and urban layout and archaeological potential analysis. Particularly the geophysical surveys undertaken in the historical center of Augusta, by means Ground-penetrating Radar (GPR), allowed a 3D reconstruction of archaeological structures in the subsoil until the depth of about 4m.