From flames to ashes. A functional fire management system in the neolithic hut of Lugo di Romagna (Fiorano Culture)

Abstract

The excavations carried out on the Neolithic site of Lugo di Romagna (Ravenna, Culture of Fiorano) have allowed to document, in addition to a complex village fence system, a whole hut destroyed by fire and in primary collapse. The structure consisted of two distinct rooms, equipped with combustion structures, accessory elements, an entire pottery set and stored foodstuffs. The house was equipped with a central hearth, an oven leaning against a perimeter wall and a series of pits excavated in the floor and filled with ashes, that were interpreted as accessory structures for the preservation of the embers. Regardless of the specific characteristics of the different combustion structures, the case of Lugo di Romagna offers the rare opportunity to study its complementarity, outlining a complete functional system for the management of fire as a source of heat, lighting and as a means of food cooking.