2019_07_24_FYL_noticia_excavacion_bañales

Nineteen students of the School of Philosophy and Letters of the University of Navarra participate in the XI excavation campaign in Los Bañales (Zaragoza). With a grant from the Comarca Cinco Villas, this activity is promoted by the Uncastillo Foundation, in which a total of 30 students from Spain, United States, Chile, United Kingdom, Portugal, Italy, Uruguay, Peru and Ecuador, from universities such as Oxford, the Catholic University of Chile, the University of Algarve (Portugal), or La Sapienza (Italy) are participating.

In the first phase of the campaign, directed by Professor Javier Andreu, director of Diploma in Archaeology at the University of Navarra, excavation began in the northern part of the site. During the works, remains of mural paintings have been found, as well as three "clavi caligarii", identifying elements of the Roman roads. The most significant finding were the traces of a complex production system, "probably for oil", as Andreu pointed out, and of a decanting tank. In addition, several ceramics have been recovered in a very good state of preservation. 

The second phase will end with the open doors workshop that will take place on Sunday, July 28 at 10 am. The students who have participated in the work will show the public the progress of this campaign that will enhance the value of the northern district of the Roman city.

The University of Navarra students participating in the excavation this summer are Nerea López ( History graduate and Diploma in Archaeology); Leire Santos (2nd year of History and Journalism); Javier Larequi (3rd year of History and Journalism); Maria José Beltramo (1st year of History); Christian Cruz (1st year of History and Diploma in Archaeology); Diego Juan Hernández (3rd year of History and Journalism); Roberto Calvo (3rd year of History and Journalism); Marianna Olin (1st year of History and Journalism, plus Diploma in Archaeology); Sara Navaz (2nd year of History and Diploma in Archaeology); Luka García (1st year of History and Diploma in Archaeology); Aitor Monge (1st year of History and Diploma in Archaeology); Carmen Pérez (2nd year of Humanities); Ane Urrizburu (1st of History and Journalism, plus Diploma in Archaeology); Iñigo Portela (1st of History and Diploma in Archaeology); Marina Eva Martín (1st of History and International Office); Carlos Astrain (1st of History and Diploma in Archaeology); Mayte Sánchez (1st of History and Journalism, plus Diploma in Archaeology); Paola Bernal (1st of History and Journalism, plus Diploma in Archaeology); Iñigo Elorz (3rd of History).

For the last five years, the academic center has been collaborating with the excavation and enhancement of the Los Bañales site, one of the most visited sites in Aragon. The works are possible thanks to the authorization of the General Administration of Culture and Heritage of the Government of Aragon and the commitment of the Comarca de Cinco Villas, among others.

Image of the first group of students from the University of Navarra who participated in the excavation campaign. PHOTO: Courtesy