Primi dati sulla cultura materiale dell'Oasi di Farafra in età romana e bizantina: le ceramiche e le anfore

The archaeological mission in Farafra oasis was launched in December 2009 by the Department of the Ancient World, University of Viterbo. A preliminary analysis of satellite maps and a first visit in 2008 have prepared our 2009 survey around the modern town of Qasr Farafra, where we made a series of “first contact” explorations (topographical survey), collecting pottery material in sample areas where ancient settlements and cemeteries were identifiable near qanat water systems, as well as small cultivated areas and oases, in many cases now being depleted and abandoned. During the topographical survey a collection of surface materials has been carried out at the sites of Ayn Besay, Ayn Kifrin, Ayn Shemendu, Ayn Beshwy, Ayn el-Hagar and Ayn el-Harra, in sample areas of approximately 5 x 5 m, whose vertices have been accurately georeferenced using differential GPS. After a preliminary rating for classes onsite, the pottery material was photographed, drawn, analytically cataloged and entered into a computer database specifically designed. The first frequentation of some settlements seems to date between I and III century AD. At present, on the basis of information derived from the analysis of pottery material, we are unable to determine ruptures or continuity of occupation. In some sites the latest materials is not later than the VIII century AD.