Alexandria Kom el-Dikka. Excavations and preservation work in the 2018 season

Abstract

The 2018 season saw a continuation of research on Roman housing and urbanism in Alexandria. Excavations were focused in the central area of the Kom el-Dikka site, where some early to mid-Roman structures (2nd–3rd centuries AD) were explored. The uncovered part of the building seems to combine domestic and commercial functions. A couple of shops opening onto the street were identified. Evidence of artisanal production of glass beads was also recognised in the post-occupation phase. Post-processing of the finds (pottery, glass vessels, painted wall plaster and coins) was continued. The paper also brings an overview of the preservation program, which was limited this season to maintenance conservation of structures seriously threatened by unfavourable climatic conditions (mainly Baths and auditoria).