Integrated analysis of a complex funerary area: the case of the Late Antiquity cemetery of Canusium (Lamapopoli locality, Canosa, Apulia)

In the north-eastern suburb of Canusium (locality Lamapopoli), in the central-northern part of Apulia, there is a large and articulated cemetery complex. It’s characterized by the coexistence of both familiar and collective hypogea (catacombs), excavated at different altitudes into the rocky hillslope, that characterizes the site, and of a sub divo necropolis. The frequentation of the entire cemetery is dated - without interruption - between the II and VI century AC. Between the IV and VI century the construction of the catacombs intensified and exponentially strengthens the methods of occupation of the cemetery. At present, 14 independent hypogea with independent accesses are known and they are different by extension and planimetry. In addition, the epigraphic and iconographic documentation certifies the frequentation and ownership of the cemetery by the Christian community.