Publications
Mapping impact of urbanization in Shahat-Cyrene (Libya) using a big SAR data approach of change detection with COSMO-SkyMed time series
A novel approach leveraging big Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data from the COSMO-SkyMed constellation has demonstrated high accuracy in mapping the spatial and temporal spread of new buildings and road blocks around Shahat, Libya, threatening the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cyrene. The study analyzed over 180 SAR images collected since 2011 at a resolution of 3 meters, revealing finer details and more precise timelines for urban development compared to traditional methods using Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery. This method's higher spatial resolution and frequent observations (every two weeks) provide critical insights into the rapid and unregulated urbanization impacting Cyrene's archaeological landscape.
A proposal for the use of Core and Buffer Zones to protect the heritage of the Cyrenean landscapes
Recent decades have seen unprecedented destruction to the ancient landscapes of Cyrene, Libya, threatening its UNESCO World Heritage status. Urban expansion, demographic pressure, and unsustainable resource exploitation have accelerated damage, overwhelming local heritage protection efforts. To address this crisis, researchers propose a strategic framework using core and buffer zones to safeguard Cyrene's archaeological integrity. Building on prior studies documenting necropolis degradation since 2011, the proposal outlines a collaborative approach involving the Department of Antiquities (DoA), UNESCO, and academic institutions like the University of Chieti. The study combines field assessments with policy recommendations, aiming to mitigate encroachment while preserving Cyrene's unique historical landscape for future generations.
Appraisal of Opportunities and Perspectives for the Systematic Condition Assessment of Heritage Sites with Copernicus Sentinel-2 High-Resolution Multispectral Imagery
Copernicus Sentinel-2 high-resolution multispectral imagery (10 m resolution) demonstrates significant potential for systematic condition assessment of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, enabling accurate detection and tracking of changes in textural properties and surface reflectance linked to conservation-relevant events. The study highlights its capability to identify single local incidents—such as wall collapses in Aleppo’s Old City—and map recurrent threats like archaeological looting in Apamea (Syria) through long-term image time series analysis. Leveraging Sentinel-2’s 5-day revisiting frequency and 290 km swath, researchers also mapped urban sprawl across Cyrene (Libya) and coastal Greek sites, offering a scalable approach for multi-temporal heritage monitoring. Validation with very high-resolution imagery underscores its utility in pre-launch trend analysis, positioning Sentinel-2 as a transformative tool for large-scale, comparative assessments when paired with advanced machine learning techniques.
From Above and on the Ground: Geospatial Methods for Recording Endangered Archaeology in the Middle East and North Africa
The EAMENA project demonstrates that geospatial methods, combining satellite imagery from 1960s to 2017 with published data and field surveys, can effectively document and analyze threats to archaeological sites across the Middle East and North Africa. Using Cyrene as a case study, the research highlights how modern urban expansion impacts World Heritage Sites, while also showcasing the methodology's scalability through extensive land-use mapping of Homs Cairns. The approach, which integrates image interpretation and fieldwork, proves more effective than crowd-sourcing or automation alone for assessing disturbances in diverse regions.
In Pursuit of Ancient Cyrenaica: Two Hundred Years of Exploration Set against the History of Archaeology in Europe (1706–1911)
This book provides a detailed diachronic account of the exploration and documentation of UNESCO World Heritage Site Cyrene, revealing significant insights into the formation processes affecting ancient sites over two centuries. By analyzing travelers' accounts from 1706 to 1911, the study compares historical descriptions with current observations, offering valuable evidence for cultural heritage preservation. The research employs a thematic and chronological approach, grouping travelers by their motivations—adventure, survey, or archaeological exploration—and examines how practical factors like road availability influenced site selection. Illustrated with historic and contemporary images, this work underscores Cyrenaica's archaeological potential while highlighting the impact of recent political instability on its heritage.
GIS of thechoraof Cyrene: fortifications and Christian buildings in Late Antiquity
A comprehensive GIS mapping project of the chora of Cyrene reveals significant insights into Late Antiquity, focusing on fortifications and Christian basilicas. The study, conducted by a collaborative team of Libyan and Italian researchers, employed advanced methodologies including remote sensing, laser scanning, geophysical prospection, and traditional archaeological surveys. This integrated approach identified numerous 'minor sites' that were crucial for local economic management from the Late Classical to Islamic periods. The research highlights the strategic importance of fortifications along the limes and the distribution of Christian buildings, contributing to a deeper understanding of the region's historical landscape during this transitional era.
Missione archeologica costiera e subacquea in Cirenaica
An archaeological survey in eastern Cyrenaica, Libya, has uncovered significant new evidence of human occupation dating back to the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods. The study, conducted jointly by a research mission and the Department of Antiquities of Libya, identified multiple coastal sites—including Phykous, El Ougla, and Ras Etteen—along with underwater areas between Ras Hamama and Ras Etteen. Among the discoveries were surface sites from the Lower Paleolithic to Neolithic eras, alongside known Roman sites. A substantial collection of lithic artifacts and impressed pottery was also gathered, providing insights into ancient technological practices and cultural evolution in the region.
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