The neighborhood of VIII.7.1-15 near Pompeii's entertainment district and the Stabian Gate (plan copyright the Soprintendenza Archeologica di Pompei)

The 'Pompeii Archaeological Research Project: Porta Stabia' (PARP:PS) aims to uncover the structural and occupational history of the SE corner of Insula VIII.7, from its earliest origins through to 79 CE. Through a series of selective excavations, structural analyses, and geophysical surveys, PARP:PS will produce a complete archaeological analysis and assessment of the shops, workshops, inns, and houses at VIII.7.1-15.

This neighborhood was selected for intensive investigation because of its unique potential to reveal the developing relationship between public and private space in the Roman city: each of the private buildings were connected to the so-called 'entertainment district' - an area comprised of two theatres, a large public colonnaded courtyard, three temples, and a forum. This was the social and cultural centre of Pompeii. The buildings chosen for excavation line one of the major thoroughfares of Pompeii, just inside one of its gates (the Porta Stabia). Even so, no stratigraphic excavations have ever taken place here since they were first cleared of volcanic debris - then left to be consumed by vegetation - just over a century ago. PARP:PS offers the rare opportunity to begin new and exciting research into a forgotten corner of Pompeii (not even the tourists enter here), where such interestingly diverse buildings await modern archaeological investigation and countless questions.

The project is carrying out a sampling strategy based on limited excavation in select locations throughout VIII.7.1-15, the complete recovery and analysis of the artifact and ecofact record, a comprehensive structural survey and analysis of the standing architecture, and geophysical survey (where possible). A detailed digital photographic record is also a part of all recording.

Excavation: the stratigraphic excavation of subsoil deposits will produce a record of the synchronic history of VIII.7.1-15. PARP:PS digs in those areas where the ancient floor surface has eroded away, or does not survive in situ. Artifact Recovery and Analysis: full recovery of both the artifactual and ecofactual record is undertaken. 5mm mesh sieves are used to screen all material recovered from the excavations. Select deposits undergo flotation sampling for the recovery of biological remains. Architectural Survey: The archaeological stratigraphy is integrated with the study, interpretation, and recording of all surviving architectural structures throughout VIII.7.1-15. All surviving walls will be documented, drawn, and photographed. Mortar samples assist in the interpretation of phasing. All of these measures can produce a detailed sequence of the standing structures as they relate to the subsoil excavations. Geophysics: a nondestructive geophysical survey will provide a plan of various parts of VIII.7.1-15 and the immediate area. In particular, it is hoped that a geophysical survey of the neighboring Quadriportico dei Teatri will indicate the presence, or not, of features that may have once related to the early foundations of VIII.7.1-15.