Research concentrated in the area of the recently discovered Hellenistic sanctuary situated in insula I8, at about 100 m towards the sea from the Casino Macri, in the central flat area of the city. Here, new sectors of the ritual complex were investigated: in addition to continuing the western area, revealed to be characterised by large scale interventions in the late antique period that cut the earlier levels, extensive excavations were undertaken beyond the modern fencing delimiting part of the archaeological park. This completely exposed the northern parts of two rooms (N1, N2) confirming the presence of particularly refined finishings. In addition, various elements connected with the ritual use of water emerged, further confirmation of the symbolic universe already recognised in the area. New evidence relating to the abandonment rituals was collected, including the intentionally hidden fragments of a louterion associated with a terracotta lion’s head sima. The eastern limit of the sanctuary was also identified, while the western one remains unknown.

Research also took place in areas immediately outside the complex, the stenopoi S8, to the south, and S9, to the north. In particular, for the latter it was possible to investigate a stratigraphic sequence running from the late antique period to the 4th century B.C., uncovering a large part of the building’s front.

The excavations also confirmed the importance of this sector of the ancient complex for evidence about the reconstruction of the different occupation phases of the city, from the archaic to Byzantine periods.
A large amount of work was done to consolidate and restore the plastered surfaces, and previously restored surfaces were monitored. At the same time, conservation work continued on the finds (pottery, coroplastics, elements of architectural decoration etc.).