Dalla villa rustica al casale tardomedievale: i reperti delle Terme Nord-occidentali della Villa del Casale di Piazza Armerina

Abstract

This study offers a comprehensive reassessment of archaeological materials from the north-western baths of the Villa del Casale, recovered during the 1950s excavations and partly published by G.V. Gentili. By integrating published data with an examination of stored artefacts, the research aims to reconstruct the occupational history of the sector and clarify the problematic contexts of many finds.
Particular focus is given to the African Red Slip Ware, predominantly retrieved from the frigidarium—especially the natatio, the trilobed pool, and the eastern vestibule—and dated between the mid-1st and early 7th centuries. The earliest specimens are attributable to the villa rustica phase. Most material, however, pertains to the Late Antique reconstruction, featuring numerous forms datable between 4th–7th centuries, supporting hypotheses regarding the phasing of the Villa. Late Roman and Byzantine occupation is further confirmed by coinage from Constantine I to Heraclius.
The medieval phase (10th–13th centuries) is characterised by the reuse and fragmentation of the bathing complex, which was transformed into spaces with functions different from the original ones. This is evidenced by plain and glazed pottery, metal tools, glass weights, and a significant Norman and Arab numismatic assemblage. The rooms were at times subdivided by internal walls and their floors raised, outlining a functional reorganisation consistent with the Arab-Norman occupation also attested in other sectors of the villa. During the subsequent late medieval Casale phase (14th–15th centuries), the complex shows signs of gradual abandonment.
Despite gaps caused by early excavation methods, evidence demonstrates prolonged use of the area from the 1st century to the Arab-Norman period, but further study of stored materials is essential to refine the occupational sequence.