Welcome to the Libarna Urban Landscapes Project, a unique research experience under the directorship of Dr. Katherine V. Huntley (Boise State University). Started in 2015, this project investigates the ancient Roman colony of Libarna in North-West Italy. Located between the modern towns of Serravalle Scrivia and Arquata Scrivia, in the province of Alessandria, the colony was founded in the 2nd Century BCE in a region of Italy with multiple layers of influence, leaving behind Gaullic, Etruscan, and of course Roman characteristics. The archaeological site has had a long and complex history of investigation over the last 200 years, which has included numerous piecemeal excavations. You can read more about Libarna’s history here. The LULP will build on these prior inquiries to generate a complete and dynamic plan of the site, most of which remains buried beneath the ground, and to understand the place oft he Roman colony in a culturally diverse region.
Combining our research with a functioning field school provides students with an opportunity to learn transferable skills in the field, to contribute to cutting edge archaeological research, and to be part of an immersive cultural experience abroad. Following three successful survey seasons using a variety of new technologies, we will break ground with our first excavations planned for the summer of 2021.