Spazi sacri e aree di produzione a Caulonia e Sibari tra periodo arcaico e classico

This paper analyses the topographical and functional relationships between sacred and artisanal areas in the western Achaean colonies of Caulonía and Sybaris, considered as ‘first generation colonies’ in the context of the Achaean colonial phenomenon. Kroton is not taken into account here: while the urban productive areas are very well-know thanks to G. Verbicaro’s research, published data do not allow us to localize with certainty any urban sacred area for the archaic period. In Caulonía and Sybaris these relationships, although verified, are very controversial. In Caulonía, finds from the sanctuary of Punta Stilo have been interpreted as traces of metallurgical activities. However, an alternative interpretation is proposed here identifying them as votive offerings, a part of a complex cultic system. Conversely, in Sybaris, in the peripheral site of Stombi, the discovery of two kilns ensures that artisanal activities were carried out on the site, while the presence of a sanctuary nearby is only hypothetical and indirectly attested.