Brick in the wall: an archaeobotanical approach to the analysis of dry stone structures (Puglia - Italy)

Dry stone constructions are a common occurrence in many Mediterranean landscapes. One of these structures known as Paretone dei Greci (Taranto, Southern Italy), was subject to an archaeological investigation. Soil and sediment material within this wall, as well as those above and below it, were sampled and processed for archaeobotanical studies. In this manner it was possible to understand its building technique as well as to provide a chronological context for it. Through anthracological analysis it was possible to insert the Paretone within the surrounding agricultural landscape, thus better highlighting its function in relation to the history of the territory.