The Superintendency of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape for the Metropolitan Area of Naples announces the launch of a new and significant excavation and restoration campaign at the archaeological area of Suessulalocated ad Acerra. This important project aims to bring to light and restore the entire perimeter of building Aa temple of considerable size, and to clarify its nature, determining whether it is a capitol or a temple building of another kind, thus making it accessible to the public.
“We are excited to start this new excavation campaign at Suessula, a site of extraordinary historical and cultural importance. The main objective is to enhance and make accessible this precious heritage, contributing to the understanding of the ancient history of our region. Excavations have begun and have already produced the first discoveries. Inside the forum, in fact, in one of the sacred buildings, a frieze belonging to a collapsed entablature was recently brought to light through a manual and meticulous archaeological excavation which will be cleaned and restored.” declares Superintendent Mariano Nuzzo.
The Roman city of Suessula, known mainly for its main square, the Forum, located in the central area now dominated by the Casina Spinelli, presents a historical stratification of unique relevance. During the archaic age, and between the 4th and 3rd centuries BC, the area was characterized by the presence of sacred and public areas. Between the end of the 2nd and 1st centuries BC, the Forum underwent an intense transformation with the construction of monumental buildings along its northern side, including Temple A.
The project is coordinated by archaeologist official Luca Di Francowhile the works are directed by official architect Serena Borea. Both are collaborating closely with the “Hera Restauri” company to ensure accurate execution of excavations and adequate preservation of the structures. The Forum area is defined by porticoes and is delimited on the eastern side by a paved road, identifiable as the urban crossing of the Via Popilia, which led from Capua to Reggio. The monumental buildings constructed along the northern side of the Forum include a sizable temple (A), probably the capitolium, and a series of public buildings including a Basilica or perhaps a Curia. The objective of the new excavation is to bring to light the entire perimeter of temple A, allowing its function to be clarified and the site accessible to visitors
