Późnorzymski dom w „Marei” i jego mieszkańcy. Grant Narodowego Centrum Nauki UMO-2011/01/B/H3/02184

The project endeavours to conduct a comprehensive interdisciplinary study of domestic architecture in Marea (Egypt) during the early Byzantine period and attempts a reconstruction of daily life based on remains of residential structures. The research rely on traditional archaeological research methods. Archaeological are conducted in the S-E part of the city. Excavation object is house H1 situated on the East from the apse of the basilica excavated by the Polish mission since 2003. Until very recently, domestic architecture of early Byzantine in general has not been subjected to systematic studies and large-scale excavations. Its meaning within a broader cultural context and its importance for the reconstruction of daily life have often been neglected. For a long time the interest of explorers and scholars was focused predominantly on monumental architecture, whereas domestic architecture became an attractive topic only in the context of spectacular findings, mostly mosaics or sculptures. In Marea residential quarters that certainly occupied most of the ancient city remain almost completely undocumented. Although some ruins of ancient dwellings are still visible on the surface.
The objectives and questions of this project are multiple. The most important aim is to investigate the origin of domestic architecture in early Byzantine Marea. We aim in endeavour to provide clear evidence for both the influence of Graeco-Roman models in terms of building style, construction techniques and the impact of local tradition on building materials and styles. The above will serve as a basis for the investigation of patterns of internal organization of space, which reflected the rules and values governing in local society (the importance of courtyards and reception halls, division between private and public areas, sectors for owners and servants, etc.). Application of interdisciplinary methods and a variety of data are necessary to achieve another important aim of the project – one that concerns society of Marea: a comprehensive reconstruction of daily life, tastes, social position and cultural identity of the inhabitants of Mareotic dwellings from domestic remains and extant artwork.