The Bank Datis 'Tess' and mosaic culture in Albania

Abstract

The study reported in this paper is part of a larger project which aims to study and catalogue comprehensively the known mosaics floors and pavements found in modern Albania. This paper concerns the database called TESS, which is, used in this research for the census of Albanian pavements and is based on digital data acquisition technologies in Culture Heritage. It allows one to describe the building and the rooms where mosaics are found, as well as to present the mosaics themselves. At the same time, it uses remote sensing for archaeology and Cultural Heritage management, which allow for the monitoring of the conservation of the buildings and the mosaics decorations. To date, 43 sites with prestige pavements (mosaics, opus sectile, cementitium etc.) have been found. In total these sites have 265 pavements, which are believed to date to the period between the 4th century BC. and the 6th century AD. The ultimate goal of this research is to carry out a critical re-analysis of the Albanian mosaics during this period. In particular, research will focus on their topographic and architectural features and on the socio-cultural aspects of their production. The goal is also to promote interest in Albanian history and archaeology, in order to stimulate activities aimed at raising public awareness and the preservation of the cultural inheritance of the country.