Cuma: i sistemi di regimentazione delle acque di epoca arcaica, la pianificazione urbana e la tirannide di Aristodemo

This paper focuses on the water management of the Greek colony of Cumae from the Early Archaic to the Archaic period (ca. 700-500 BC), starting from the new evidence emerged during the last excavations of the University ‘L’Orientale’ of Napoli. The Early Archaic urban planning of the area North to the Roman Forum (ca. 700 BC) adapted to the geomorphological char- acteristics of the territory. The roads slope ensured a good drainage of the rain water in excess Northwards, thereby crossing the city to reach the Licola lagoon. The successful results of the water management policy in Cumae are the main reasons behind the persistence of the same urban plan until the Late Roman period.
A significant improvement of the drainage system was undertaken probably under the tyrant Aristodemos (504-485 BC) as part of his public policy program. This involved the rebuilding of the city walls and the promotion of monumental works associated to the water management (as also suggested by the taphros reported by Plutarch). The construction of a monumen- tal two-channel sewer crossing the Northern city walls West of the Middle Gate allowed to pour the excess rain water into a moat. Aristodemos’ drainage system was in use throughout the history of Cumae, proving its success in improving the city life through the water management. th
The presence of common architectural features with the Tarquinians’ drainage channel in Rome (6
close cultural and political relationships between Rome and Cumae during the Archaic period. These huge improvements in the water management system are the result of the combined experiences of other cities of Greece, Magna Graecia, Campania and Italy.