Metallurgy in ancient Lecce: new evidence from the excavations of Piazzetta Epulione and Piazzetta Castromediano

Recent excavations made by University of Lecce in Piazzetta Epulione and Piazza Castromediano (Lecce) have produced structures and artifacts related to metal-working. Most of the evidence dates back to the Roman period; traces of metallurgical activity can also be traced to the periods preceding and following the Roman period. Iron slags and semi-finished objects have been found in Piazzetta Epulione. Of particular interest are the vetrified slags related to the tuyeres, which were probably connected to smithing works. Archaeometallurgical analyses (microscopy and XRD) of objects found in the excavations support the hypothesis that the metallurgical workshops of Lecce were involved in the production of iron.