The last Greek city of Sicily emerges from the mud: the mission that is rewriting history among secrets and luxury domus

There is an ancient city that sleeps atop Monte Sant'Angelo, a place where the history of Sicily wrote its last Greek chapter before embracing the eagle of Rome. It is Finziade, the last Hellenic foundation of the island, which from April 27 to June 5, 2026 will once again become the beating heart of Mediterranean archaeology with its fifth excavation campaign.

Under the scientific direction of CNR-ISPC of Catania and the Archaeological Park of the Valley of the Temples, the Finziade Project is preparing to dig through the folds of a glorious past. This is not just a simple academic research: the excavations of recent years have literally "rewritten" the history of Licata, bringing to light astonishing finds that tell of a vibrant, rich city that was architecturally advanced for the late Republican era.

In the heart of the residential district: hunting for domestic treasures

The mission of 2026 will focus on a specific sector: an ancient residential neighborhood. Here, among millennia-old streets that still retain the charm of the new urban layout of the time, archaeologists will seek to unveil the secrets of daily life in Finziade.

Expectations are high: the area is known for the preservation of homes with rich decorative elements, fixed and movable furnishings that offer a unique glimpse into Hellenistic-Roman domestic architecture. Leading the field operations will be Dr. Alessio Toscano Raffa, assisted by colleagues Mariano Morganti and Donata Giglio (CNR) and the archaeologist from the Park Maria Concetta Parello.

An opportunity for young talents: the call for 10 "Indiana Jones"

The project is not only about discovery but also about training. The organization has indeed launched an international call aimed at students and graduates in archaeology. Only ten lucky individuals, selected based on academic merit and field experience, will have the privilege of actively participating in the excavation.

Young researchers will be divided into three shifts of two weeks and will be able to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the site. The organization will provide free accommodation in facilities made available in Licata, asking participants to cover only their food expenses.

How to participate: the deadline is approaching

For those dreaming of getting their hands in the soil of history, time is running out. Participation applications must be sent by April 5, 2026 to the email addresses alessio.toscanoraffa@cnr.it or marianomorganti@live.com. Selected profiles will receive confirmation by April 7, ready to embark on an expedition that promises to unveil new, monumental pieces of the Sicilian mosaic.