Enhancing archaeological prospection through integrated GPR-multispectral analysis. The first results from the Alpine hilltop settlement of Teglio (Valtellina, SO)

The Alpine settlement of Teglio, Italy, offers a commanding view of the Adda River and nearby passes, pivotal in early medieval times. The ‘Dos del Castel’ hillock, with its medieval structures including the S. Stefano church and ‘Torre de li beli miri’ tower, had remained unexplored archaeologically until recent non-invasive surveys using Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) and UAV multispectral analysis. These methods were applied to detect buried structures and analyze vegetation indices, revealing the presence of walls and possible functional spaces carved into the bedrock. The GPR surveys identified high-reflectivity anomalies indicating masonry structures, while multispectral analysis, despite sparse vegetation, highlighted significant areas of possible archaeological interest. Subsequent excavations confirmed these findings, uncovering walls, a monumental staircase, and other structures, suggesting a long-standing and well-organized occupation of the site. This integrated approach has proven effective, paving the way for new approaches in archaeological prospection.