The Paleolithic site of Notarchirico, located in Venosa in the Basilicata region of Italy, is the focus of an ambitious research project funded by the European Research Council (ERC).
This project, titled “HIC SUNT LEONES,” aims to explore and shed light on significant archaeological discoveries in this area, home to one of Europe’s oldest and most important prehistoric sites.
The Research Team: An International Collaboration
The team leading the excavations at Notarchirico is composed of internationally renowned researchers from prestigious institutions. Here is an overview of the key members of this team:
- Marie-Hélène Moncel: A Director of Research at CNRS and the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle in Paris, Marie-Hélène Moncel is a prominent figure in the field of prehistory. Her work primarily focuses on studying the behaviors of early hominids in Europe, and her expertise is crucial to the Notarchirico project.
- Marco Carpentieri: A professor at the University of Ferrara in Italy, Marco Carpentieri brings his expertise in prehistoric archaeology, particularly in analyzing lithic tools and subsistence strategies of Paleolithic populations.
- Antonio Pineda: A researcher at the Institut Català de Paleoecologia Humana i Evolució Social (IPHES-CERCA) in Spain, Antonio Pineda focuses on studying ancient ecosystems and their interactions with early humans. His work within the ERC project helps to better understand the environmental context in which our ancestors lived.
- Raffaele Sardella and Beniamino Mecozzi: Both affiliated with the University of Rome “La Sapienza,” these researchers contribute to the study of prehistoric fauna at Notarchirico, offering a unique perspective on the biodiversity and climatic conditions of the time.
- Alessio Iannucci: A researcher at the University of Tübingen in Germany, Alessio Iannucci specializes in human paleontology. His expertise is essential for interpreting the human remains discovered at the site, allowing for the reconstruction of the history of the region’s earliest inhabitants.
An Educational Initiative
Beyond scientific research, the “HIC SUNT LEONES” project also aims to raise public awareness of the importance of prehistory and archaeological discoveries. Guided tours, workshops for children, and conferences are organized to allow everyone to delve into the ancient history of Notarchirico.
For example, during the event held from July 20 to 24, 2024, workshops titled “La préhistoire à petits pas” (“Prehistory in Small Steps”) and “Petits paléontologues” (“Little Paleontologists”) were specially designed for young visitors, inviting them to discover the daily lives of our ancestors in a fun and interactive way.
Medias
Presentation document for the ERC project at the Ministry of Culture, in Venosa (Basilicata region, Italy).
