From 2005 to 2015, we carried out archaeological field surveys, excavations, and geological research on the Greek island of Zakynthos, with the aim of assessing the distribution of archaeological remains in the landscape. Archaeologically, the island of Zakynthos has been neglected compared to the other Ionian Islands. Our research has shown that the island has been inhabited continuously since Palaeolithic times. Remains from Early Prehistory, the Mycenaean Period, and Hellenistic-Roman times are particularly abundant.
Zakynthos is not known for its archaeology and the island possesses very few monuments from antiquity. In fact, the archaeology of Zakynthos is fragmented, due to frequent earthquakes, intensive agriculture, and tourism. The scarcity of archaeological remains is certainly not due to a lack of ancient habitation, or that the island would not have been significant in the past. In order to understand antiquity, we need to find ways to study areas with a marginal archaeological record – such as Zakynthos.
The Mediterranean Archaeological Trust has generously funded sub-projects by students and team members. Because of this, specific aspects of the project have already been published and young researchers had the opportunity to develop themselves academically. In addition, MAT funding has enabled us to conduct study campaigns. We expect the final publication of the project in 2023.
For more details on this project, you may get in touch with Dr. Gert Jan van Wijngaarden, Associate Professor at ACASA – Archaeology, University of Amsterdam or visit their website at www.uva.nl/archaeology-zakynthos.
M.A.T. 