Quand les textes et les sols se taisent : le cas de Cencelle (Tarquinia, Italie, ixe-xve siècles)

Abstract

The results of archaeological excavations, when compared with iconography and medieval texts, provide multiple intersections that facilitate a better understanding of material civilization, with the perspective of obtaining a comprehensive and evolving vision. While historians and archaeologists have long downplayed "illustrations", these are now recognized as full-fledged documentary sources. In the case of Cencelle, an italian medieval city, a study that integrates texts, images and excavation results is necessary. Cencelle has been the subject of extensive archaeological excavations for over three decades, yielding a substantial corpus of data pertaining to the daily lives of its inhabitants. The Italian Middle Ages are particularly rich in iconographic sources that reflect various aspects of urban life, rendering Cencelle a particularly compelling case study. The utilisation of iconography allows us to better understand certain aspects related to the social and economic context of the city, such as its leisure activities or beliefs. For instance, the article will conclude with a discussion of beliefs related to funeral rites.