TECHNOLOGY AND BUILDING MATERIALS IN ROMAN AGE (1st BC - 2nd AD): THE “MAUSOLEO DELLA SFINGE” FROM THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE OF CUMA (ITALY)

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Sossio Fabio Graziano
Claudia Di Benedetto
Vincenza Guarino
Concetta Rispoli
Priscilla Munzi
Piergiulio Cappelletti
Vincenzo Morra

Abstract

This research aims to deepen knowledge on geomaterials used in building operations of a very important


monumental complex belonging to the "Porta Mediana" necropolis the archeological site of Cuma.


The entire site counts 70 mausoleums among which, the one named "Sphinx complex" or A63, is particularly


important. For its realization several geomaterials have been used.


Analytical results were carried out from several techniques such as optical microscopy, microchemical and


mineralogical-petrographical analysis, scanning electron microscopy with EDS and X-ray powder


diffraction. This approach allows to clarify the provenance of natural geomaterials and also the technological


processes involved in the production of artificial geomaterials (mortars, plasters, cocciopesto).


Phlegrean tuffs, due to their easy workability and good mechanical features, were used mainly for


masonries and for decorative function (a bas-relief of a "sphinx" for example). As far as artificial geomaterials


are concerned, the use of a volcanic aggregate, was privileged too. Some examples of imported stones were


also found: limestones and marbles, the first one implemented as a building material for cippi of the fence


while the second one for prestigious coating elements. Results permitted to evaluate building techniques of


the period and mainly the wide potential of Phlegrean fields' materials when used as a bulding stone. This


research aims also to give important informations for restoring and conservative actions useful for


mausoleums of the entire site.

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