Sources of geomaterials in the Sicani Mountains during the Early Middle Ages: A case study of Contrada Castro, central western Sicily

From 2017, an unknown rural settlement in Contrada Castro at Corleone (Palermo Province, western Sicily) was investigated as part of the ‘Harvesting Memories Project’. The stratigraphic sequence, supported by radiocarbon dating, has demonstrated a reoccupation pre-Roman site during transition between Byzantine and Islamic periods. In particular, main occupation occurred late 8th–9th century when pottery kilns probable warehouse were constructed. During 10th–11th century, new structure with different orientations replaced previous buildings that had already collapsed. Specifically focusing on perspective household production its relationship to surrounding landscapes this site, paper presents results geological survey petrographic analysis ceramic finds lithic samples identify source area geomaterials used studied settlement. divided into Paste Groups based characteristics polarizing microscope study. use some locally available raw materials recorded both for samples. Such approach enables us better understand craft technology, clay procurement strategies and, more broadly, consumption Early Medieval Castro. Furthermore, study verifies close resources reveals connection city Palermo Middle Ages.