Archeological Lecture in English at NIKI

The Netherlands Interuniversity for Art History (NIKI) will be holding a lecture called ‘Drama in the Tuscan Countryside: excavations of the Marzuolo Archaeological Project (2016 – 2024)’ on Wednesday, March 5. The talk will be led by Astrid Van Oyen, a professor of archaeology at Radbound University, Nijmegen. The event, which will take place both in person at NIKI’s Florence location on Viale Evangelista Torricelli 5, and online, will offer listeners a unique look into the Marzuolo Archaeological Project, an excavation that has unearthed an unexpectedly turbulent past in the Tuscan countryside. 

Van Oyen is a Roman archaeologist specialising in Italy and the Western provinces, was previously an Associate Professor at Cornell University. Her research delves into the socioeconomic history of the Roman working class, rural economies, and material culture. In the upcoming lecture, she will explore the findings from eigh years of excavations at the archaeological sight of Podere Marzuolo (Cinigiano, Provincia di Grosseto). This area was once believed to be a quiet village in the late 1st century BC, new discoveries tell a different tale which is far more dramatic. 

The site revealed a landscape marked by ambition, failure, and resilience and visitors will hear stories about a failed wine business, a blacksmith’s forge that was destroyed by fire, and a potter’s unsuccessful attempts at innovation. These findings highlight the rich tapestry of individuals who came through the village and challenge the traditional narrative of an idyllic and peaceful countryside. 

In addition to these stories, Van Oyen will also explore the methodologies used in excavation and the importance of reconstructing the lives of non-elite Romans. Her work tells us how archaeology not only uncovers physical remnants of the past but also helps piece together the lives of ordinary, non-elite humans, who are often left out of history. The event presents a rare opportunity for the public to gain insight into the complexities of rural Roman life. 

The lecture is open to the public free of charge, though pre-registration is required to guarantee seating or online access, which can be booked through NIKI’s website HERE.