Papers: Phaistos Project - Survey and Excavation by Vincenzo Amato
Papers by Vincenzo Amato
Seismic Microzonation of the Pompeii Archaeological Park (Southern Italy): Local Seismic Amplification Factors
Geosciences
Pompeii Archaeological Park is the best laboratory for the study of the seismic site effects on c... more Pompeii Archaeological Park is the best laboratory for the study of the seismic site effects on cultural heritage: the ancient site was destroyed and buried by the 79 AD Vesuvian eruption and, furthermore, it was also affected by the 62–63 AD strong earthquake. Large sectors of the city were reconstructed after this earthquake while other parts were still under reconstruction when the fall-out and pyroclastic density currents of the eruption buried the Roman city. In order to evaluate the distribution of the damage and reconstructions due to the earthquake, detailed mappings of the structures were carried out using multidisciplinary approaches. In addition, analyses of the topographical features, subsoil stratigraphies, and geophysical surveys, responsible for local seismic amplification (site effects), allow us to define the sectors of the ancient city where the Amplification Factors (AFs) were the main ones responsible for damage. Selected areas and examples of compromised and rec...
Geosciences, 2022
The Apennine mountain areas suffer progressive abandonment and marginality, although being charac... more The Apennine mountain areas suffer progressive abandonment and marginality, although being characterized by an extraordinary richness in natural and cultural resources, and landscapes of great beauty. Therefore, their natural heritage, and especially their geoheritage, tranformed into geotourism initiatives, can represent an essential resource to support local economy andsustainable development. The present study illustrates the case of Matese Mountains (Southern Apennines), particularly rich in protected areas, including the Matese National Park currently taking off, which is characterized by a rich geoheritage, based on 59 geosites. Among these geosites, examining the specially built geosite GIS database, 16 geosites were selected to construct a geoitinerary crossing the Matese Mountains. The geoitinerary was delineated to optimally represent the major geomorphological and geological (especially geohistorical) features of the Matese area. The selected geosites were associated to a...
Geosciences, 2021
The term “geoarchaeology” was established within the last 50 years, although earlier applications... more The term “geoarchaeology” was established within the last 50 years, although earlier applications of this field can be found [...]
The article is a report on the results of the first campaign conducted in the Athenaion of Poseid... more The article is a report on the results of the first campaign conducted in the Athenaion of Poseidonia-Paestum by the University of Salerno as part of a three-year concession granted by the Italian Ministry of Heritage (2018-2020). The field investigations were started in 2018. They are the final outcome of a series of studies on the metal materials from the "Stipi di Cerere" (hoards of Ceres), unearthed in the 1928, 1929, 1937, and 1939 excavations directed by A. Maiuri. These studies included an examination of all the previous documentation, which had revealed the potential of further investigations, to be implemented both through non-invasive testing and by resuming excavation. It was evident that the old excavations in the sanctuary had not always reached down to the virgin travertine bank. Between June and September 2018, geophysical tests and two trial pits revealed part of a trench of the 1930s excavations, as well as layers with dates between the late sixth and early fifth century BC, only partly disturbed by early digging. The results achieved have opened new research perspectives not only on the history of the temple but also on the early years of the history of Poseidonia.
The Matese Massif is a ca. 1000 km2 wide and NW-SE elongated carbonate relief, located in the inn... more The Matese Massif is a ca. 1000 km2 wide and NW-SE elongated carbonate relief, located in the inner sector of the Southern Apennine chain. It has a tabular setting with steep structural slopes bordering the central high mountain sector including its major peaks and is crossed from approximately west to east by the border between Campania and Molise regions. The Matese Mountains represent a key area for the comprehension of the geological and tectonic evolution of the Southern Apennines since Mesozoic times. Its long-term geomorphological evolution has been controlled by Quaternary tectonics and climate variations that have allowed the temporary or permanent establishment of various environments and morphodynamics. Deposits and landforms originated by glacial, periglacial, karst and fluvial processes, along with a rich assemblage of tectonic-structural features and landforms of complex origin have given origin to a geological heritage of exceptional value. The geosites actually censured within the Campanian sector of Matese are reported in the Geosites Map of Campania, available at the website of Campania Region and partly included in the Italian Geosites Inventory of ISPRA. The geosites of the Molise sector have been recently assessed within the geosite inventory carried out by Molise University. They are reported in the Geosites Map of Molise, available at the website of Molise Region, and partly included in the ISPRA's National Inventory of Geosites. The Matese area is largely included in protected areas: the Campania portion falls within the Matese Regional Park, established in 2002, while most of the Molise sector falls in the extensive ZPS/SIC IT72222287. To better protect and exploit the unique natural and geological heritage of the Matese Massif, numerous initiatives aimed at the establishment of the National Park of Matese have continued for several years and very recent attempts to promote the Matese Geopark have been made, but unfortunately without any success. Meanwhile, there are various initiatives that promote geotourism separately in the Molise and Campania sectors. However, a network of geotourism initiatives linking the two sectors and allowing the exploitation of the geological heritage of the Matese area as a whole is still lacking. Aim of this study is, obviously, the promotion of the geoheritage of the Matese Massif. Specific objects are to contribute to a better connectivity between its two sectors, the development of an overall geotourism network and, somehow, the establishment of the Matese National Park/Geopark. We propose a first geological itinerary that runs through the entire Matese Massif, from south to north. The proposed itinerary includes geosites of local to national relevance and various scientific interest (from Paleontology to Geomorphology). It allows also non-scientific audiences to understand the main steps of the rich geological history of the Matese Mountains and the geomorphic processes that have given rise to the high variety of paleoand active landscapes and landforms, but also to appreciate its natural heritage.
We studied in detail the Gioia Sannitica active normal fault (GF) along the Southern Matese Fault... more We studied in detail the Gioia Sannitica active normal fault (GF) along the Southern Matese Fault system in the southern Apennines of Italy. The current activity of the fault system and its potential to produce strong earthquakes have been underestimated so far, and are now defined. Precise mapping of the GF fault trace on a 1:20,000 geological map and several point data on geometry, kinematics and throw rate are made available in electronic format. The GF, and in general the entire fault system along the southern Matese mountain front, is made of slowly-slipping faults, with a long active history revealed by the large geologic offsets, mature geomorphology, and complex fault pattern and kinematics. Present activity has resulted in Late Quaternary fault scarps resurrecting the foot of the mountain front, and Holocene surface faulting. The slip rate varies along-strike, with maximum Late Pleistocene-Holocene throw rate of ~0.5 mm/yr. Activation of the 11.5 km-long GF can produce up to M 6.1 earthquakes. If activated together with the 18 km-long Ailano-Piedimonte Matese fault (APMF), the seismogenic potential would be M 6.8. The slip history of the two faults is compatible with a contemporaneous rupture. The observed Holocene displacements on the GF and APMF are compatible with activations during some poorly known historical earthquakes, such as the 1293 (M 5.8), 1349 (M 6.8; southern prolongation of the rupture on the Aquae Iuliae fault?) and CE 346 earthquakes. A fault rupture during the 847 poorly-constrained historical earthquake is also compatible with the dated displacements. 1 Introduction Detailed field mapping of active faulting is essential for populating fault databases oriented at mitigating the seismic risk from ground shaking and fault displacement hazard (e.g.,
Journal of Maps, 2020
The map is aimed at illustrating the relationships between landscape evolution and human occupati... more The map is aimed at illustrating the relationships between landscape evolution and human occupation in the Isernia basin since the Middle Pleistocene. We carried out a detail scale geological-geomorphological investigation integrated with archaeological data. Overall data suggest enhanced landscape modification related to the long-term evolution of the Isernia basin. Moreover, during the Middle Pleistocene an alluvial plain environment was present, as testified also by the famous Lower Palaeolithic site of Isernia La Pineta dated to ca. 600 ky. From 600 ky onwards, extensional tectonics and related valley incision reshaped the Isernia basin, with the formation of terraced surfaces and the deposition of a travertine plateau. Archaeological findings from the Lower Palaeolithic up to the Chalcolithic Age testify to preand protohistoric settlements on these surfaces. In historical times, Romans settled on the Isernia terrace ridge taking advantage of the outcropping travertines to support wall foundations and to extract construction material.
Resources, 2020
Geotourism" is a particular type of "sustainable tourism" that is still in an embryonic stage, es... more Geotourism" is a particular type of "sustainable tourism" that is still in an embryonic stage, especially in Italy. The main goal is the transmission of geological knowledge to increase the awareness about geoheritage, geo-resources and geo-hazards. The geoparks represent ideal sites, with a strong educational significance for students, teachers, geo-tourists, and guides interested in geological and environmental sciences, though at different levels. With this in mind, we propose a geoitinerary through some of the most geologically interesting coastal areas in the Cilento, Vallo di Diano, and Alburni Geopark. The aim of the geoitinerary is to provide a good example of how geosites could be promoted through geotourism and used as means of divulgation of geological and environmental knowledge. The selected sites are the San Marco coast, the Licosa Cape and the Elea-Velia archaeological area. They are included in the official list of geosites and geomorphosites of the Geopark and have a relevant stratigraphic and geoarcheological value. The San Marco coast and the Licosa Cape are the "best sites" in the Geopark where Quaternary coastal deposits and morphologies are represented. The Elea-Velia site is one of the most famous archeological sites in the Geopark, which is also representative of complex human-environment interactions. Despite their high scientific significance, the sites that we have selected are not included in a specific promoting program. We have so tried to fill this gap by providing the scientific background for their geotouristic promotion that could also serve as an instrument for the increase of the local economy.
Geosciences, 2019
The Temple of Athena is one of the main sacred areas of the Greek–Roman settlement of Poseidonia-... more The Temple of Athena is one of the main sacred areas of the Greek–Roman settlement of Poseidonia-Paestum (southern Italy). Several archaeological excavations were carried out here between the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. Unfortunately, the locations of these excavations are only approximately known, as are the geomorphology and stratigraphy of the temple area. A multidisciplinary study, including stratigraphic, geomorphological, archaeological, and sedimentological investigations, remote sensing, and electromagnetic and geoelectrical tests, was therefore carried out, shedding new light on the geomorphology and stratigraphy of the SW and W temple sectors. The geophysical data obtained revealed anomalies in the subsoil that probably correspond to ancient structures and the cutting of the travertine deposits around the temple. The position and extension of the trenches of the early archaeological excavations were also established.
Geoheritage, 2019
The paper deals with the contribution of the Molise geoheritage to make better known the central-... more The paper deals with the contribution of the Molise geoheritage to make better known the central-southern Apennines landscape and to promote geotourism activities. The Molise territory is characterized by a high geodiversity and the natural coexistence and closeness of three major, highly differentiated Apennine landscape units. It offers an exemplary cross-section of the variety of landscapes/landforms that typically characterize the young, tectonically still active Apennine chain, from its core up to the Adriatic piedmont area. Based on the regional geosite inventory, we selected 31 geosites. These geosites are considered the most representative and exemplary of many of the major landforms that typically characterize the distinguished Apennine landscape sectors and are capable to illustrate several steps of their long-term evolution and/or present-day dynamics and related hazard aspects. The selected geosites are well-preserved landforms, easily and safely accessible, and observable both onsite and/or through panoramic views. They have good to excellent scenic-esthetic qualities and, thanks to the representativeness and clarity of exposed features/processes, can be easily understood by a large audience. The paper highlights the contribution that the geological heritage of a territory can provide for geotourism purposes and informal educational actions by using geosites, especially geomorphological sites, to make known the peculiarities, evolution, and present-day dynamics of its major landscape features. It wants to contribute to the dissemination and sustainable fruition of geosites that help attributing to them an effective cultural and economic value, so to encourage their conservation.
Geoarchaeology, 2017
The city of Benevento in the southern Apennines is located on a Pleistocene fluvial terrace almos... more The city of Benevento in the southern Apennines is located on a Pleistocene fluvial terrace almost entirely bordered by rivers. Its ancient history of human settlements dates back to the Samnitic age (fifth to third centuries B.C.). The urban landscape witnessed extensive transformation, especially during the Roman (fourth century B.C.-sixth century A.D.) and Longobard (6th-10th centuries A.D.) periods, largely as a result of destructive earthquakes and massive floods. As a consequence, large portions of the modern town were built on deep stratified archeological deposits that partially preserve the remains of previous settlements. In order to improve and expand our knowledge of the buried archaeological heritage of this town, archaeo-stratigraphic data were integrated into a geographic information system format and database, the latter further supplemented by a detailed geomorphological study. This new dataset enabled a reassessment of the Benevento subsurface along with its archaeological assets, shedding new light on the archaeological potential of the urban area. Finally, a more reliable map of hidden cultural resources was developed, thus providing a useful tool for more suitable urban planning and project designs to help guide renovation of urban infrastructure.
The Holocene, 2018
Phaistos was one of the most important Minoan palaces in Crete and previous studies have addresse... more Phaistos was one of the most important Minoan palaces in Crete and previous studies have addressed its relationship with the paleo-seashore position during historical times. Here, we reconstruct the environmental evolution of Phaistos from Early Minoan to Roman times. Study of two stratigraphic sections and nine boreholes drilled in the westernmost part of the Messara Plain has revealed the stratigraphy of the Mid- to Late-Holocene sediments. Laboratory analyses comprise granulometry, magnetic susceptibility measurements and identification of mollusks, diatoms and pollen grains. Eighteen radiocarbon dates provide a robust chronostratigraphy. In addition, a geophysical survey (electric resistivity tomography (ERT) method) was conducted to reveal the sub-surface morphology in the coring area. The results reveal that a freshwater lake existed from ca. 2100–2000 BC to ca. 1200–1100 BC, which subsequently became swampland until ca. 700 BC. A lake retreat is identified at ca. 1200–1000 BC...
Environmental Earth Sciences, 2018
This paper presents the results of the geological and geomorphological investigation carried out ... more This paper presents the results of the geological and geomorphological investigation carried out during the first level seismic microzonation project in the Isernia Province territory. The study area falls in one of the most seismically active areas of the Apennine chain and it has been struck, in historical times, by destructive earthquakes that caused several causalities and diffuse damages to the buildings. The analysis points out the occurrence of geological features that can determine possible site amplification phenomena related to areas with extensive outcrops of thick continental deposits or to unstable areas (both covering about 48% of the investigated areas). The latter are sometimes combined with geomorphological features such as scarps, isolated peaks, and ridges that are also responsible for possible site amplification. In addition, a susceptibility to local seismic amplification index has been introduced which highlights that more than 64% of the investigated area, along with a significant percentage of buildings, fall within the highest categories of susceptibility to local seismic amplification.
Geologica Carpathica, 2017
This paper concerns the reconstruction of the main stages of the long-term landscape evolution of... more This paper concerns the reconstruction of the main stages of the long-term landscape evolution of the Molise portion of the central-southern Apennines along a transect divided into three sectors (SW, Central and NE). Analysis mainly focused on geomorphological, stratigraphical and structural data supported by chronological constraints, coming from an overall review of past literature and several studies carried out by the authors of the paper during the last 20 years. The results obtained allowed the elaboration of a conceptual model of the long-term evolution of the Molise sector of the central-southern Apennines. Starting from the Pliocene, the emersion of the Molise area occurred gradually from SW to NE, allowing a polycyclic landscape to evolve under the major controls first of compression then transtensional to extensional tectonics as well as climatic variations. Principal markers of the Quaternary geomorphological evolution of the Molise area are represented by the infill suc...
ACTA IMEKO, 2016
The Latin colony of Aesernia was the seat of an important road junction for communications, espec... more The Latin colony of Aesernia was the seat of an important road junction for communications, especially to the south with Bovianum and Beneventum, to the north with Aufidena and the Sangro Valley and to the west with Venafrum and the Liri River Valley. While some archaeological contexts of this colony are documented by very detailed studies, others still require an overall analysis and a systematic study. Particularly, there is the lack of an organic and complete reading of the known data and a concrete need to acquire new data on still unexplored areas.The present paper illustrates the results of the integrated geo-archaeological research carried out at Isernia and based on the analysis of historical sources, archaeological surveys, geologic, geomorphological and topographic investigations and geophysical prospections. All data were stored in a Geographic Information System that allowed for spatial analyses and the production of thematic maps. The purpose of the research was to help...
Chronique des activités archéologiques de l’École française de Rome, 2015
Formes et modes de vie d'une cité italiote (IVe-IIe siècle av. n. è.
The ancient Samnitic and Roman towns of Bovianum, located at the base of the northern slope of th... more The ancient Samnitic and Roman towns of Bovianum, located at the base of the northern slope of the Matese Mountains and partially extending within one of the most depressed sectors of the Boiano intramontane basin, were strongly influenced by historical palaeoenvironmental changes mainly due to climatic and man-induced variations and subordinately to the effects of historical seismicity. These changes influenced the evolution in time of the urban settlement layout extensions, which shifted alternatively towards the Matese slope and its piedmont area and the plain. In particular the Samnitic-Roman Municipium (IV century B.C.-I century A.C.) was located mainly within the piedmont area and only partially within the plain, while other smaller settlements were founded at the top of the palaeosurfaces of Mt. Crocella and Civita. From the I to the IV century A.C., the Roman Colonia expanded both towards the plain and the slope, thanks to the reclamation of the most depressed sectors of the...
La valutazione delle deformazioni del suolo nella piana di Venafro mediante l’elaborazione di dati PSInSar, morfo-strutturali e stratigrafici
ABSTRACT Il lavoro presenta i primi risultati di uno studio multidisciplinare finalizzato alla ca... more ABSTRACT Il lavoro presenta i primi risultati di uno studio multidisciplinare finalizzato alla caratterizzazione delle relazioni esistenti tra il campo di deformazione del suolo nell'area della Piana di Venafro (Isernia, Molise) ed il suo assetto stratigrafico e morfo strutturale. Lo studio è basato sul confronto dei dati relativi alle velocità medie annue di spostamento ottenute da tecniche interferometriche SAR con i risultati derivati da analisi geomorfologiche, stratigrafiche e strutturali di dettaglio. La Piana di Venafro, porzione dell'alta valle del fiume Volturno, rappresenta un'ampia depressione tettonica generatasi in un regime estensionale, instauratosi a partire dal Pleistocene inf. (Cinque et al., 2000). Il sistema polifasico di fagliazione ha determinato una subsidenza tettonica ed il conseguente accumulo di un potente spessore di sedimenti di ambiente prevalentemente fluvio-palustre, intercalato a depositi vulcanoclastici di varia origine, la cui entità è ancora oggetto di discussione (> 250 m nella porzione centrale) (Brancaccio et al., 2000 cum biblio). Il sistema di faglie è ancora attivo, come testimoniato sia dall'accadimento di forti terremoti in epoca storica (346 AD e 1349 AD) sia dai valori di slip rate, stimati in circa 1 mm/anno per la Faglia dell'Aquae Juliae (Galli & Naso, 2009 cum biblio), orientata NW-SE e ribassante verso SW (Fig. 1). La caratterizzazione del campo di deformazione superficiale è stata effettuata sulla base dei risultati del processamento interferometrico di scene SAR ERS1 ed ERS2 (1995–2000) ed ENVISAT (2003-2008), effettuato tramite la tecnica PSInSAR TM
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Papers: Phaistos Project - Survey and Excavation by Vincenzo Amato
Papers by Vincenzo Amato