Archaeological investigations on the Barbiano-Rabanser property, covering an area of circa 240 square metres, on which garages are due to be built, have permitted the examination of a prehistoric stratigraphic sequence (Neolithic to Bronze Age), partly damaged by unauthorised trenches. The excavation revealed what is probably the bottom of a late Bronze Age hut. This consisted of a rubble-bed for drainage which formed the base for the floor levels, which are not preserved. The structure, which constitutes the latest stratigraphic element, is situated up slope where ancient evidence of erosion can be seen. In the same area the excavation of a terrace wall was completed. Built for agricultural purposes, the wall presents a slight slope in a west-east direction. The few structures identified and the scarcity of finds leads to the conclusion that this was perhaps an area used for agricultural activities adjacent to the settlement. In fact, a second terrace wall was found, running parallel to the first, along with a series of gravel and stoney patches of limited dimensions. This may indicate land reclamation or an attempt to improve the terrain by removing stones. Within the stratigraphy colluvial soils alternate with layers of organic material which had probably been cultivated. A partial examination was undertaken of a dark brown layer, 30 to 50cm thick, which corresponds to the first human activity in the area, probably dating to the late Neolithic period. The layer contained a concentration of medium to large stones which were used in the reclamation of a wet area. Among the artefacts found were two fragments of small scythe, of a Bronze Age type, several flint tools (two scrapers), sherds of Neolithic and Bronze Age pottery, including a body sherd with graffito decoration, and a single, very deteriorated animal bone. It is useful to remember that traces of dwellings, even though faint, were found in 1996 in the area immediately north of the lot investigated this year.