Interaction between natural dynamics and human settlements in the territory of Gricignano d’Aversa (CE) from the Neolithic to the Roman age

This study aims to reconstruct the long-term interactions between humans and the environment in the northern sector of Gricignano d’Aversa (CE), using historical data integrated into a Geographic Information System (GIS). Legacy data from the Archaeological Museum of Naples were digitized as part of a project involving the National Geoportal and the development of a Territorial Information System (TIS). The latter is primarily based on the elevations of stratigraphic units, georeferenced in QGIS. The soil elevation data were obtained from both archaeological and geological surveys. These data sets allowed the development of a geoarchaeological section, created with AutoCAD, as well as Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) generated with QGIS. The results show that the site’s geomorphology was mainly shaped by volcanic events, first the Campanian Ignimbrite eruption (39,000 years ago), which had a strong impact on settlement patterns. Topographical variations resulting from these events played a key role in settlement choices. Moreover, the proximity to the Clanio River influenced settlement choices, with communities preferring areas far from the river to avoid flooding. This trend changed by the Roman period, when drainage techniques, evidenced by canalizations, allowed settlement closer to the river.