Publications
Bioarchaeological evidence of mycoses during the Late Antiquity–Early Middle Ages transition in Central Italy
Researchers have uncovered bioarchaeological evidence of mycoses infections in burials from the archaeological site of Selvicciola, central Italy, dating between 426 and 639 CE. This discovery suggests that socio-cultural, climatic, and geopolitical shifts during the Late Antiquity–Early Middle Ages transition, including the Longobard conquest, may have contributed to deteriorating health through agricultural intensification and reduced crop diversity. The study develops a structured differential diagnostic approach for identifying mycotic infections in paleopathology, integrating lesion morphology, internal bone response, and 3D imaging, while addressing the lack of uniform criteria in the discipline.
Combing through museum collections. A “museomic” application of ZooMS
A groundbreaking application of Zooarchaeology by Mass Spectrometry (ZooMS) to Longobard-era osseous artifacts from the 'Musei Reali di Torino' reveals that while cervid bones were predominantly used for comb-making, the Longobards also opportunistically utilized bovine and equid bones. The study, which analyzed 37 specimens using MALDI-TOF-MS and nanoHPLC-tandem MS, found good biomolecular preservation even in heavily restored 19th-century artifacts. Among three sampling methods tested—invasive, eraser-based (eZooMS), and bag-based—the eraser method emerged as a non-invasive yet effective approach for routine museum conservation. The research underscores the potential of biomolecular techniques to reconstruct the complex biographies of museum objects and highlights the Longobards' preference for locally available resources, with no clear association between raw material and object typology or function, except for buttons.
Dynamic-Based Limit Analysis for Seismic Assessment of Free-Standing Walls of San Giovanni Church in Castelseprio UNESCO World Heritage Site
Free-standing archaeological walls, such as those of San Giovanni Church in Castelseprio (a 5th-century Longobard fortified settlement and UNESCO World Heritage Site), are highly vulnerable to seismic forces due to their lack of structural connections. A dynamic-based limit analysis method was applied here to assess these walls, revealing that the acceleration demand for potential macroblock collapse is two to six times lower than the structure's dynamic amplification response to ground motion. This finding suggests that no immediate intervention is necessary for stability. The study combined on-site inspections, modal identification, and response spectrum analysis to calibrate engineering models of the north and apse walls, identifying critical zones prone to detachment. While the construction quality of the apse was poorer than the north wall, both exhibited compact masonry due to high-quality mortar. Future work could refine the method with nonlinear dynamic analyses and more precise uncertainty modeling.
PIXE, SEM and RAMAN analysis of pictorial materials from the VIII century crypt of San Salvatore, Brescia (Italy)
Advanced analytical techniques have confirmed the use of Longobard Period pictorial materials and techniques in the VIII century crypt of San Salvatore, Brescia. The study employed non-destructive particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy to analyze painting materials, revealing a distinct palette consistent with contemporaneous Longobard artistic practices. Complementary data from photographic documentation across electromagnetic spectrum bands further enriched the understanding of the crypt's decorative techniques. This research not only integrates with ongoing archaeological studies but also solidifies the church's significance as a representative monument of the Longobard era.
Longobard Warriors in the Seprio Judicaria
Archaeological analysis of grave goods from the Seprio region reveals distinct patterns in Longobard warrior equipment, highlighting the spatha and scramasax as status symbols that signified nobility and freedom. The study identifies a hierarchy among warriors based on weapon sophistication and armor types, such as mailor lamellar armor and helmets, while also tracing social positions through accoutrements like harnesses, belts, and golden crosses. Over the past 50 years, significant relics from this period have been unearthed, but further research is needed to uncover more of the region's buried history.
World Heritage-Universal Heritage. The Commitment of Brescia Museums Foundation and Brescia Council to Enhance Museums and Public Archaeological Areas
Brescia's museums network, managed by the Brescia Museums Foundation, has successfully implemented inclusive and accessible strategies to enhance public engagement with cultural heritage. Through innovative tools and initiatives, the foundation ensures that all members of the public can fully experience the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Longobards in Italy. Places of Power (568-774 A.D.)'. This approach demonstrates a commitment to universal design for human development, making cultural sites more inclusive and accessible to diverse audiences.
Horse Burial in Lombard Italy: Crossing Cultural and Afterlife Boundaries in Social Representation
Horse burials in Lombard Italy, introduced during the migration of the Lombards in 568 AD, served as cultural symbols representing unique status rather than solely reflecting a warrior's role. Unlike traditional associations with warriors, these burials included young women and non-warrior males, suggesting horses were emblems of social standing in death. The study focuses on the necropolis of Spilamberto, highlighting its unique association of horses with young ladies. Through analysis of human and equine remains, the research argues that horse burial customs were borrowed from warfare symbolism but primarily functioned as status markers, irrespective of an individual's involvement in warfare during life.
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