Introduction

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In 1969 Steven Wright excavated in the Civitate C area, while this work reveal conclusions of occupation, nothing was found in context ( SW/NW I 1969 ). In 2007 CC7, a trench located a few meters North of WrightÂ’s area of work, was opened for the exploration of this area ( KGM I p. 1 ). Another area of excavation, CC8 was excavated 9 meters to the east of CC7 to determine if there were any settlements below the plateau. This excavation was inconclusive ( AMA/CGM II ). In 2008 CC9 was also excavated to the North of CC7 to better define the features found in CC7.

During the 2007 season an oval concentration of carbon rich soil and small rocks was found in the original 4 x 4 trench of CC7 with a clear delineation between the northern (sterile) and southern (rocky) part of the trench ( KGM I p. 69 ). The feature continued under the eastern, southern and western baulk walls. It was decided to define the boundaries of the rocks. In total 5 extensions were made ( KGM I p. 95 , p. 145 and JAH/JLL II p. 11 , p. 23 , p. 45 ). The eastern, western and most of the northern boundaries of the rock feature were exposed, while the southern boundary seemed to continue under the baulk wall. On top of and within the feature, large fragments of ceramic vessels, bones, and weaving implements were recovered, along with several

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concentrations of Murex shells ( KGM I p. 143 ).

During the 2008 season three 1x4 meter sections were excavated in the eastern half of the rock feature between 151E to 154E and 93S to 97S ( AJC/ARR I ). Found within the feature was evidence of midden fill inside an intentionally hollowed out space. In the eastern most cut a highly carbon included circle was exposed and appears to be the remains of a post intended for use in architecture ( AJC/ARR I p. 135-137 ).

During the 2009 season CC7 will be opened in its entirety to further define and understand the ovular feature in the full context of itÂ’s surroundings.

It is the goal of the 2009 excavations:

1. Help better understand the purpose of the oval rock feature in CC7.

2. Better understand the stratigraphy and topography of the area.

3. Recover datable material from a secure context within the feature.

4. To clarify the nature of the architecture.

4. To determine if there is any more evidence of light frame architecture.

5. Explore and recover any artifacts that predate the feature.

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