First Season of Archaeological Excavations at the Site of Magjerica

In September and October 2015, CeRPHAAL, in collaboration with the University of “Aleksandër Xhuvani” in Elbasan, undertook the first season of archaeological excavations at the site of Magjerica. A prior survey conducted by the team in 2011 in the Vjosa Valley had yielded material remains suggesting long-term occupation of the site, likely related to a rural settlement.

The main objectives of the excavation were to understand the evolution dynamics of the rural habitat in the Upper Vjosa Valley during the Roman and Medieval periods, and to identify settlement patterns in relation to the surrounding territory.

Excavations carried out in one of the test pits revealed occupation layers associated with a structure, along with abundant archaeological materials. The discovery of ceramic wares, glass fragments, as well as frequent animal bones, possibly from livestock, found in the excavated layers, suggest a possible residential character of the identified structure.
As part of the project, a training program was also provided for students from the University of Elbasan, offering on-site practical experience in archaeological field methods and documentations.