The Pontine Marshes (Pomptinae Paludes) is a former wetland in the Lazio region of Italy. It is generally considered to have been unsuited for large-scale habitation and agricultural exploitation until the area was reclaimed and colonised during the co-called 'bonifica integrale' of the Italian fascist regime in the 1920s to 1930s. However, the area has a much deeper history.
In this free lecture held at Museo Italiano, Gijs Tol, Associate Professor of Roman Archaeology at the University of Melbourne, will trace the many ancient attempts to reclaim this infamous marshland by Roman consuls, emperors and popes alike, as far back as the 4th century BCE. Hear about the various ancient sources, as well as the archaeological work by the Pontine Region Project (PRP), carried out by the Universities of Melbourne and Groningen over the last 15 years.
Co-presented by The University of Melbourne, Hellenic Museum and CO.AS.IT. Museo Italiano in celebration of National Archaeology Week 2024.