Gargano Prehistoric Flint Mines Project: the state of research in the Neolithic mine of Defensola - Vieste (Italy).

The Authors relate on the results concerning the more recent research on the Neolithic mine of Defensola and point out the knowledge regarding prehistoric mining activities in Northern Gargano, also in the light of new discoveries in the Peschici territory made by the Authors. Defensola is a type of structure with "communicating filled rooms and pillars" and multiple accesses, already previously identified, although the exploration and the planning of the upper level has not been completed. The A. specify the applied extractive techniques and make hypothesis about the functionality of corridors, linked both to the exterior and to the extraction areas. They examine carefully the distribution of archaeological material, linked to the structure. The typological analysis of ceramics, concerning the darkish brown class with semi-plain body, permits a chronological/cultural attribution, referable to latest phases of the mine, in part according to radiometric dating, that indicate the period between VIth and Vth millennium b.C. The other archaeological materials (lamps and picks) do not give for the time being specific cultural indications. The numerous charcoals found along the corridors set the problem about the meaning of their presence inside the mine.