by InTrieste
On Thursday, June 20, and Friday, June 21, an excavation site in the heart of Trieste will open its gates to the public. This rare opportunity allows citizens and tourists alike to witness firsthand the meticulous work of archaeologists as they delve into the city’s rich historical layers. Guided tours will provide a glimpse into Trieste’s storied past, illuminating fragments from the Byzantine and Roman eras.
Since October 2023, significant excavation and redevelopment efforts have been underway in the area of Via di Crosada and Via dei Capitelli. These endeavors aim to complete stratigraphic archaeological investigations, shedding light on the earliest periods of human activity in this historic part of Trieste. The project, funded by the Ministry of Culture, is directed by the Soprintendenza Archeologia, Belle Arti e Paesaggio del Friuli Venezia Giulia. On-site operations are conducted by professionals from the Società Cooperativa Archeologica A.R.A. of Siena and ArcheoTest S.r.l. of Trieste.
Visitors to the open site will be guided through a journey back in time, exploring the remnants of Byzantine Tergeste from the 6th and 7th centuries AD, and Roman Tergeste from the 1st to 4th centuries AD. This historical expedition is set in an area once dominated by the 19th-century houses of “Contrada Crosada.” Among the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to view the remains of a grand construction from the mid-4th century AD. This edifice represents a pivotal moment in the city’s architectural evolution, featuring the imposing fortification walls of the Late Antiquity period.
Guided tours, available by reservation, will be conducted by the archaeologists actively working on the excavation. These tours will be limited to 20 people per session to ensure an intimate and informative experience. The schedule for the tours is as follows:
Morning Sessions: 10:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:00 PM
Afternoon Sessions: 2:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 3:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 4:00 PM
This public opening not only provides a unique educational experience but also fosters a deeper appreciation for Trieste’s archaeological heritage. As visitors observe the careful uncovering of ancient artifacts and structures, they are offered a tangible connection to the city’s illustrious past.
