Work continues on the consolidation and restoration of the extraordinary complex of Jewish catacombs at Venosa. The exploration of the floor levels has been completed, during which 77 new burials were identified. Out of respect for the Jewish religion, which forbids the bodies to be touched or removed, it was decided to limit the investigations simply to the identification of the tombs. Besides which it is known that Jewish burials cannot contain any artefacts.
Of particular interest was the discovery of a new decoration, a five-armed candelabra, which had been incised in the fresh mortar covering the tiles on a grave.
In June, exploration began of the cuniculae that were blocked by collapses within the catacombs. This is being undertaken in collaboration with the Interregional Scientific Unit of the police headquarters at Bari, directed by Dr. Giuseppe Pace. Using infra-red minature tele-cameras it has been possible to check the state of conservation of the corridors and also bring to light the remains of inscriptions. (Maria Liusa Nava)