The excavation was extended to the south, further in depth excavation was undertaken in correspondence with various parts of the structures and an east-west trench was opened in correspondence with the northern sector. One of the main aims was the cleaning and in-depth examination of a number of sections of the structures, already exposed in previous seasons, in order to gain a better understanding of their line, of the stratigraphic relationship with the diverse collapses and the less extensive intermediate structures.

In relation to this type of investigation a short trench on an east-west alignment was opened, 50 cm wide, in correspondence with the northern limit of the excavation. A close examination was made of the line of the north section, to check the development of the collapse deposits with respect to the structures and to test their depth. Furthermore, a more precise idea was gained of the dimensions and composition of the exposed curtain wall with regard to the formulation of clearer hypotheses as to their function. In correspondence with the sector to the west of this trench the remains of the rendering of a large post hole were uncovered. Its position suggests it was part of a palisade or a containing structure, more easily recognisable in section, where the covering determined by the collapse could also be more clearly seen. It was also seen how the structure furthest east was constituted by a double row of large travertine blocks carefully placed close together to form a wide base for the fortifications. This confirms the mainly defensive function, unlike the elements uncovered further east which seem rather to be terracing structures.

In the trench the thick layer of brown sandy loam was presumably in its original position, considering the disposition of numerous pottery fragments found mainly in a horizontal position without slippage. The substantial concentration of pottery and finds of fragments of loom weights, of cane trellis and faunal remains suggests this was an occupation level. This deposit seemed to stop in correspondence with what may have been a containing structure, of which residual elements immediately west of the large travertine blocks remained. Therefore, the layer must represent one of the fortified settlement’s last occupation phases, of which this structure represents the principal defensive element.

In correspondence with the extension to the south a new level of terracing was uncovered. This was comprised of mainly travertine and limestone elements on a north-south alignment, which seemed in continuity with the structural alignments found to the north. Here a concentration of small post holes was found, on an alignment tending towards north-south, suggesting the presence of a timber palisade, perhaps complementary to a stone structure.