In the city of Marsala, located in the province of Trapani, recent Archaeological excavations have brought to light significant evidence of the past, revealing details of the ancient city of Lilybaeum, dating back to between the 4th and 3rd centuries BC. This project cultural valorization was promoted by councilor Francesco Paolo Scarpinato, head of the Regional Department of Cultural Heritage and Sicilian Identity, who encouraged the resumption of research in specific urban areas.
Archaeologists Marco Correra and Maria Grazia Griffo, respectively from the Cooperativa ArcheOfficina and Parco Lilibeo, led the investigations, concentrating their efforts in two main excavation sites: Piazza Marconi and Via Amendola, and Vico Infermeria. The main objective of these excavations is to reconstruct and better understand the defensive system of the ancient city. One of the most relevant findings, called the “Rock Bridge”, dates back to the 4th century BC and is thought to have been an access to the highest point of the city.
Current research aims to explore the original structure of this bridge and probe the depth of the moat underneath, which is estimated to reach 12 metres. During the excavations, layers emerged that document the Roman presence from the 1st to the 4th century AD, with the possibility of also finding layers belonging to the Punic period of the 4th century BC. The artefacts found include amphorae, cups, jugs, ceramics and lamps, evidence of a lively commercial exchange and thriving local and imported craftsmanship.
The second site of interest is located near the Norman-Swabian Castle, where the excavations aim to explore the foundations of the building’s surrounding wall. This area extends between the southeast tower and the circular tower. The layers examined so far date back to 1500, the period of construction of the nearby bastion of San Giacomo. Artifacts discovered in this area include enamel jugs, bowls and bowls, dating to the late and post-medieval period.
Anna Occhipinti, director of the park, revealed that the investigations also include the analysis of the wall structures and sections of a further small portion of the settlement dating back to Roman and medieval times. At the end of April, during an open day, the archaeologists presented a preview of the results obtained to the local community. Further investigations are also underway in other areas, such as via delle Ninfee and via Pomilia, under the guidance of the Cooperativa il Progresso and the University of Palermo.
Under the scientific supervision of Giovanni Polizzi, researcher in Archaeological Research Methodologies at the UNIPA Department of Cultures and Society, an archeology field laboratory was organised. These excavations are not the first in the area; Previous research dating back to 1982, 1984, 1986 and 1990 has already brought to light a Domus from the 1st century AD, further enriching our understanding of the history and culture of this fascinating archaeological site.
