Makella Archaeology Field School 2026

About

The site of Makella, whose location had long been the subject of speculation, has in recent years been identified on the Montagnola of Marineo, commanding the course of the Eleuterio River and the trade routes that in antiquity connected southern and northern, as well as eastern and western, central-western Sicily. Recent excavations have revealed human activity dating back to the 8th century BCE, evidenced by the discovery of indigenous pottery from that period.
As with many other centers in the region—whether Sicani or Elymi—the 6th century BCE appears to have marked a significant stage of development. Numerous artifacts from this period include Greek or colonial imports alongside locally produced impressed and incised ceramics with geometric decoration, attesting to active and productive contacts with Greek culture. The ease of travel along the Eleuterio, which linked the site to Soluntum and Panormus, also likely facilitated privileged relations with the Punic world.
From the archaic period, fragments of the fortification system and a substantial deposit of votive offerings—including armor and pottery—have been uncovered near an altar in a clearly sacred space. Particularly notable are three helmets and two bronze greaves of Magno-Greek and Corinthian-Chalcidian style. Their significance lies in the probability that they were dedicated in this sacred space as offerings to the gods, perhaps in commemoration of a military victory—a rare practice in Sicily. This may reflect the Greek-Punic military tensions in Sicily between the 6th and 5th centuries BCE, which culminated in the Battle of Himera.
In essence, Makella was, like many contemporary sites, open to the ebb and flow of Greek and Punic influences, yet it retained a distinct indigenous character. The coinage discovered at the site indicates that it remained active into the Hellenistic period, by then under the established control of the Carthaginian eparchy. Evidence of the strengthening and eventual destruction of its defensive system in the 2nd century BCE can be linked to the events of the First Punic War.
The site was likely abandoned during the Roman imperial period and the Byzantine era, as few traces from these times have been found. It was, however, reoccupied during the Muslim rule of Sicily from the 10th to the 12th centuries AD, continuing into the Norman period, as evidenced by surviving structures, pottery, and coins.

Course leader

Andrea Masi

Target group

Open to whoever is interested in Sicilian history and archaeology, students, beginners of all ages (over 18).

Course aim

The main aim is to give the opportunity to take part in a proper archaeological excavation, being part of a team and learning as you go. You will handle, wash and draw whatever pottery is found, from Greek to Phoenician, from Roman to Arab-Norman pottery. Afternoon classes will be held in English.
Genesis have the permission from the Archaeological Park of Himera-Solunto-Iato whose Director, Arch. D. Targia will hand out, together with Genesis, Attendency Certificates which can be exchanged for Credits at your University or College.

Check our website and click on CORSI

Fee info