Concept

The planned research concept would combine geophysical measurements carried out in the entire area within the northern retentura with excavations carried out in several places. Applying these two methods, we want to obtain in a relatively short time, i.e. several years, an image of the area in question, as well as the arrangement of layers and the depth at which architectural remains of various periods are located. The aim of this research would be to determine the general architectural layout of the buildings located at the back of the principia during the whole Antiquity.

An important addition to these data would be information obtained from the study of movable artefacts (including their function, dating, quality, etc.), laboratory analyses: radiocarbon dating (14C), contents of vessels (chromatographic analysis of lipid biomarkers), and animal remains, the aim of which would be to provide data enabling us to approximate our knowledge about how the buildings in the retentura were used and, consequently, their functions. An additional goal is to determine the course of the northern section of via decumana – the street running through the reservoir on the north-south axis and to perform detailed measurements of the location of this axis as well as possible changes in the ancient period already reported in 2005 (Sarnowski, Kovalevskaja, Kaniszewski 2006, 145). Changes to the axis of this street translate directly into changes in the layout of buildings in the retentura.

Geophysical test surveys carried out in the southern retentura in 2012 yielded positive results indicating the presence of architectural structures with a regular layout (Tomas 2017). We also managed to find the location of trenches from 2005. Taking into account the extent of the area covered by the research, trench testing has been done in two sections located in the area of ​​interest to us from 2021 (Tomas 2023). Thanks to them, we were able to check the thickness of cultural layers, allowing for the estimate the time and costs of the project.

The project is structured into five main work packages that together aim to investigate, document, and interpret an archaeological site using both non-invasive and invasive methods, followed by detailed analysis and synthesis of results.

Work Package I focuses on non-invasive investigations, including geodetic, geophysical, and LiDAR surveys. These methods will be conducted in stages and systematically analyzed to produce a comprehensive dataset about the site without disturbing it.

Work Package II involves excavations. These include targeted trenching to verify results from non-invasive surveys and broader, open-area excavations in selected locations. The trenching method will serve as an initial verification step before expanding to wider excavation areas.

Work Package III centers on documentation and post-excavation analysis of findings. Specialists will study various categories of artefacts using detailed documentation such as drawings, photographs, descriptions, and 3D models. The artefacts analyzed include amphorae, tableware, kitchenware, glassware, metal objects, weapons and armour, terra sigillata, thin-walled vessels, inscriptions, terracotta, bone artefacts, and animal remains.

Work Package IV consists of laboratory analyses of samples collected during excavations. These include archaeobotanical studies, radiocarbon dating (14C), , and chromatographic analysis of lipid biomarkers. Samples will primarily be selected during the first three years, with additional sampling in the final year if needed.

Work Package V involves the integration and synthesis of all collected data. This includes reconstructing building phases and chronology, visualizing spatial data, integrating results into a GIS database, conducting literature research, and ultimately interpreting the function of buildings within the studied area.

The research team is divided into three interconnected groups. The first group focuses on fieldwork and includes the principal investigator (PI), specialists in non-invasive methods, and field archaeologists. A student or PhD candidate will also participate in fieldwork and documentation using modern techniques.

The second group consists of specialists analyzing artefacts, including ceramics, glass, metal, weapons, and coins, as well as bioarchaeological remains. Additional experts will contribute to specific categories such as inscriptions. This group is supported by a professional illustrator and a student assistant.

The third group is responsible for processing and interpreting architectural data and site documentation. This includes managing databases, organizing findings, and assisting in spatial and chronological analysis. A student or PhD candidate will support data handling and organization.

Coordination across all groups is managed by the PI, who ensures communication and knowledge exchange through a dedicated platform and team workshops held during and at the end of the project.

The final outcome will include identification and interpretation of buildings and their functions within the site, supported by integrated survey and excavation data. Results will be disseminated through academic publications in leading journals, conference contributions, specialist studies, and an online exhibition aimed at both academic and general audiences.