Recherche par auteur > Russo Elena

The Department of Humanistic Studies of the University of Naples Federico II has been conducting systematic archaeological excavations and analysis in the sanctuary of Hera located at the mouth of the Sele river since 1987.

Positioned approximately 8 km from Poseidonia, the Heraion emerges as a notable case study within the broader discourse on sacred spaces. Established concurrently with the city's foundation in the early 6th century B.C., the sanctuary delineates the topographical boundaries of the Poseidonian chora, providing valuable insights into the environmental conditions that influenced its architectural and religious evolution.

The proximity of the Sele river, situated on the sanctuary's northern side, plays a pivotal role in shaping the sacred configuration of the Heraion; however, the presence of marshy terrains and swamps posed serious challenges in the sacred buildings and the reception of worshippers.

Since the earliest phases of the Archaic period, the central area of the sanctuary is characterized by continuous building activities for the construction and consolidation of the walking surfaces; thus, the marsh landscape is slowly transformed to take on the configuration of a sacred enclosure, the site of ceremonies dedicated to the goddess.

The appearance of the sanctuary changed continuously throughout its long life, with certain areas being decommissioned and others refunctioned, as evidenced by recent archaeological findings in areas outside the main sanctuary, as in the case of the Zone C.

This study addresses the theme of 'lived space' within the Heraion by looking at material traces which gives us information about the forms of worship and rituals conducted in the area. Stratigraphic analyses offer valuable insights into the functional organisation of the sanctuary spaces, where the ceremonial practices become increasingly clearer.

The analysis of animal bone remains is essential for this research since they represent valuable indicators in the study of sacred contexts. Zooarchaeological analysis from old and new excavations in Zone A and C is providing new data on the use of livestock in the sanctuary and the species chosen as sacrificial victims (mostly sheep, goats, and cattle).

As observed in other similar contexts, marine mollusks referring to different species are also abundant in the Heraion, which clearly reflects specific dietary choices in the sanctuary. Lastly, numerous burned animal bones hint at ritual activities or non-ritualistic consumption practices within the sacred space, adding layers of complexity to our understanding of the Heraion's cultural and religious dynamics.