In May 2006, during the cutting of the Emiliano Romagnolo Canal, an open area excavation was undertaken between via Maiano and via Ponte della Vecchia at S. Zaccaria (RA). In antiquity this area, now flat, was situated on the edge of a rise. The fact that the archaeological deposit was only a few centimeters below present ground level has provoked a slight scraping of the surface which has obliterated the upper occupation levels.
Two large sectors were opened: area B to the north and area A to the south of the via Maiano. Sector B revealed structures of varying complexity relating to perimeters and a system of channels probably connected to an adjacent water course. Sector A revealed more interesting remains constituted by a series of structures used for production purposes linked to a channel system. Two upright kilns were uncovered, their combustion chambers dug into the ground. The larger of the two, with a circular chamber (diam. 2.50m) linked via the preafurnium to a stoke hole at the front, still conserves part of the perforated kiln floor. The second, smaller, kiln consists of a simple circular cavity (diam. 1.50m) without a preafurnium. An organised system of subsidiary structures completed the area: apart from the usual rubbish pits, a well for collecting water from the water-table, borrow pits and settling pits were identified, the latter linked to a network of small drainage channels. The water flow must have been regulated via the use of wooden sluices, of which the negative impressions were found.
The material found in the levels of fill and abandonment provides a dating horizon of the 6th century B.C., with strong indications of Umbrian tradition. (Monica Miari, Cristiano Mazzoni)