The results of the 2010 excavations clearly demonstrated that the extent of the large villa being excavated at Galeata is not limited to the residential nucleus, partially brought to light in 1942 and partially excavated by Bologna University from 1998 onwards. In fact, small residential and storage structures are emerging to the north-west of the villa’s central structure, aligned along a small via glareata. The impression is that this was the villa’s original pars rustica, which over several decades seems to have transformed into a village.

The most recent excavations led to the discovery, among other things, of what seems to be the western enclosure wall of the entire complex. Furthermore, a rectangular building was uncovered associated with the possible enclosure wall of the Theoderican villa. Possibly a tower, postern gate or deposit, the back of it constitutes the continuation of the enclosure wall.

The 2010 investigations also shed light on the Roman occupation of the site. Structures which can be attributed to at least two pre-Theoderican phases were uncovered: late Republican-early Imperial and a mid Imperial phase. The first Roman phase was attested so far by the foundations of two walls, built of tile and mixed rubble bonded with clay mortar, which had been razed in a subsequent period. The second phase was attested by a large warehouse, only partially excavated, for dry foodstuffs and cereals. The warehouse had a wooden floor (later burnt, as shown by the clear traces of burnt wood) raised above the ground surface and resting on reused suspensurae and intermediate walls in order to provide insulation. All of this material was easily recognisable in the layers of destruction and burning of the building. The large number of nails, in relation to the wooden remains, constitutes further evidence for the presence of a substantial wooden floor. An abundance of food remains were found within the layers of collapse (including broad beans), together with a small group of bronze coins (from a purse), datable to the mid 3rd century and diverse pottery fragments. The aim of the next campaign will be to conclude the excavation of the warehouse, which represents an interesting “sealed” context.